A tired pony

I forgot I had taken this photo until I found it in my phone.  Here is MLE's Nicki Carson and Delia after a lesson with Susan Graham White. "Lizzie" says that being so good is hard work!

Today's challenge

I think we've used every standard we have!

Lissell's Counter Canter Miracle

So last Saturday we had Susan Graham White in town for a day of dressage lessons.  I noticed that the theme of the day for many riders was the counter canter. For Kelley, it was in preparation for flying changes.  For Erica, it was a balancing tool for her green bean.  I was just praying that Susan didn't ask me to try it.

For those of you that don't know, Lissell was a jumper before I got her.  In other words, the horse came installed with a flying change button.  Well, not really a button, because that would mean that Lissell would have to wait for me to press it.  Basically, Lissell throws in a flying change wherever and whenever she deems it necessary.  This means that the counter canter just doesn't exist for us.  I've tried to breach the subject with her in the past, and she just says, "No, you're wrong." as she does a perfect change.

Which brings us to Saturday.  Susan was having us do leg yield after leg yield at the trot and then wanted one at the canter.  We were on the right lead, and I moved my leg too far back for the leg yield, so Princess Lissell threw in a change instead.  But Susan then told me to keep the left lead.  At this point, my brain was racing, and I was convinced that we were about to see fireworks.  But instead, Lissell stayed with me for the whole exercise.  Wooohooooooooooooo!

Here's the video as proof! 

Lessons have started!

Lessons have started with Susan Graham White. Here is Julia Wendell (of An Otherwise Perfect Farm) and her adorable gelding Picante.

That's a lot of feed!

MHC Business Network

We're here with the Farmer's Coop crew in Frederick on this rainy day. We'll be getting a tour of the mill and then off to lunch.

Videos from today's Stephen Bradley Clinic

Today's exercise.

Here are a few quick videos from today's clinic with Stephen Bradley.

Exercise #1 (demonstrated by Lissell and myself)

Exercise #2 (demonstrated by Mary and Callie)

Exercise #3 (demonstrated by Glenda and Diamond)

December Susan Graham White & Stephen Bradley Clinic Dates

Below are the dates for Susan Graham White and Stephen Bradley.  All clinics will be at A Bit Better Farm in Brookeville, MD.  

While I certainly hope that it won't start snowing yet, please know that should we have to cancel because of weather, you will not have to pay for your lesson.  Both Susan and Stephen are very understanding when it comes to that sort of thing.  :-)

Saturday, December 3rd: Susan Graham White

Wednesday, December 7th: Stephen Bradley

Tuesday, December 13th: Susan Graham White

Susan Graham White lessons are $125 for a 45-minute private.  Stephen Bradley lessons are $110 for a small group (no more than 3 riders). Depending on the day, Stephen will sometimes have extra time for private lessons.  Payment is due before your lesson on the day of the clinic.  Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted.  If you'd like to pay with credit card, let me know so I can send you an online invoice before the day of the clinic.

Let me know which clinic(s) you'd like to ride in so I can reserve your slot! Simply e-mail me at margaret@mythiclanding.com.

Pony Power!

The wonder pony and I attended the Maryland Horse Trials on Sunday and we WON! It was Whisper's third time on a cross country course and her second horse trial EVER! We went around Elementary again to continue the confidence building. Dressage was better than last time and we were rewarded with a 31.00 with three 8's in the middle of the test and all 7's on the collective marks. We almost got and 8 for impulsion but they decided to stick with straight 7's. Stadium was easy breezy as usual, she has always been a star jumper in the ring. The cross country gods were smiling on us and they did not have water on the course yesterday. She still has some feelings about splashing through a water jump.
It's a lot of fun taking our first home bred baby out and being successful!

Earlier in the week I had a lesson at the Susan Graham-White clinic at A Bit Better Farm. I was riding the other 4y/o homebred DeLiza "Lizzie", a GOV Oldenburg mare owned by Brett Schrack. She was a super star and Susan loved her! She was also very complimentary of my work with her so far. I picked up some new exercises and they definitely helped with some issues that have slowly been coming up. I am looking forward to the schooling show on the 23rd at Pleasant Ridge in Walkersville, Md. where Lizzie and I will be strutting our stuff. We will be doing Training 3 and First 1. It's exciting to be moving back up the levels :)

I will make sure to post some pics of the Wonder Pony soon!

Nicki

Stephen Bradley returning on November 22nd

Stephen Bradley will be coming back to A Bit Better Farm on Tuesday, November 22nd.


Small group jump lessons are $110/rider.  These are either 3 people for 1 hour 15 minutes, or 2 people for 1 hour.  I use my judgement when making groups.

A limited number of private lessons (jump or dressage) are available for $125/rider.  These are 45 minutes each.

Payment can be made with cash, check or credit card.

Let me know if you'd like a slot!  E-mail me at margaret@mythiclandingevents.com.

 Stephen Bradley: Eventer Stephen Bradley has a long list of accomplishments: 1992 Olympic team member and '93 Burghley CCI**** winner with Sassy Reason. '93 US Olympic Committee Equestrian Athlete of the Year; '96 Rolex Kentucky winner with Doctor DoLittle; '03 gold-medal winning US Pan American Championships team member and '05 Foxhall Cup CCI*** winner with Brandenburg's Joshua; '07 gold-medal winning US Pan American Championships team member with From. Stephen enjoys teaching all levels of riders from beginners to the advanced competitor. His enthusiasm, talent for communication, and ability to inspire confidence in the horse and rider especially make him a hit with the pony clubbers! When trianing with Stephen, you can be confident that you will receive expert instruction for your level of riding.  You can learn more about Stephan at www.stephensbradley.com.

November Susan Graham White Dressage Clinics

Now that the competition season is winding down, Susan Graham White will be coming to A Bit Better Farm (Brookeville, MD) twice a month!  AND one of those days will be on a weekend!  Here is the info:

Tuesday, November 1st

Saturday, November 19th 

Cost: $125/rider for a 45-minute private lesson

To sign up: E-mail me at margaret@mythiclandingevents.com

Please let me know if you would like a slot on either (or both!) dates!  Also, remember that you can always make your lesson into a fix-a-test.  Just bring your test with you.

Susan and Donna Gina demonstrating a flying change.

More about Susan: Not only is Susan an active upper-level dressage competitor, but she also judges at many of the area shows where you compete. Susan is an FEI dressage rider and trainer based at Wolfhaven Farm in southern Maryland. She has been an active instructor, trainer, and competitor in dressage for 25 years, and has successfully trained and coached students through the Advanced 3-day level in eventing, and to FEI levels in dressage. She is an FEI "I" eventing judge, as well as a USEF "R" dressage judge. Susan has been approved for her "r" Dressage Sport Horse license. Susan has judged over 200 USEF/USEA recognized competitions, plus more than 40 international events, including Championships for 6-year-old Event Horses at Le Lion d'Angers in France, the 2006 and 2007 North American Young Riders Championships and Scotland's Blair International in 2006.  To learn more, visit her web site: www.sgwdressage.com.

MLE Goes to Fair Hill!

While I will be away at a family wedding in southern Virginia this weekend, MLE will be well represented at Fair Hill International this weekend.  If you're going, keep an eye out for Stephen and Courtney!

Stephen Bradley will be riding his new horse, Leyland (owned by Elisabeth Nicholsan) in the CCI***.  Courtney Cooper will be riding C Square Farm homebred Who's A Star (aka Tag) in the CCI**.  Courtney also has two horses in the Young Event Horse Championships ... Nevaeh in the 5-year-old division and homebred R Star (aka Hope) in the 4-year-old division.

Go Team Go!

Lissell is a mudder

It's no secret that I'm a tad overprotective of the Princess Lissell.  She's not a fan of cold and/or wet.  And this weekend's forecast had both.  So I dug out her rain sheet and sweat sheet, and borrowed Kelley's Back on Track mesh sheet and off we went.  Going to the show I figured we were going to Morven for a very expensive combined test, but I figured we would take it one phase at a time.

Dressage in the indoor.  Check.  Jane was nice enough to drive out to help me warm up and her advice was really invaluable.  When Lissell started to get a little dramatic, off we went leg yielding to the right or left.  I'm pretty sure I was the only rider in warm up doing leg yields across the arena, shoulder-ins down the long side, and lengthenings thrown in here and there.  But hey, whatever is needed to keep things in a forward motion.  Lissell's test was quite respectable for her.  There were only brief moments of hollowness. And those were quickly corrected.  But a tense horse is a tense horse, so we started the day off at the bottom of the pack.  No biggie though.  These days my main goal is to enjoy the day and my horse.  Mission accomplished on both accounts.

Next up was stadium.  All I can say is: Lissell.Is.So.Good.  Seriously.  We've really been working on getting her to go quietly to her fences.  I generally don't have help when warming up at horse shows, so it was really nice to have Kelley there.  Mission accomplished again.  Now I just need to put my leg on.  Details!  Here's the video:

Then we went out to walk cross country.  At this point it wasn't raining, and the ground was fine.  There were one or two spots where Kelley told me to be aware and "take care of your horse." But no big worries.  Kelley also helped me pick out "big girl studs" and off we went.  Of course it starts to rain as we're walking down to cross country, and given where we were parked, I was soaked and shivering by the time we got there.  I jumped 2 things, and went to wait my turn.  There was only one point when I was cantering towards a fence with the cold rain hitting my face that I wondered, "Why the hell do we do this!?"  But it was fine.  Really.  I told myself that if Lissell slipped once I would just pull up, but as I said before Lissell is really good at this jumping thing.  Combined with our monster studs (at least they were monstrous to me, Kelley told me she would have put in studs twice that size for Bomber), all was well.  Event complete.  Horse happy.  Rider happy.  Life is good.

Here's a brief clip of cross country:

Special thanks to Scott and Holly for being chief cheerleaders for the day.  And still smiling at the end of the day!

Riding in the African bush country

Earlier this summer, I had the incredible opportunity to go on safari in Kenya. I saw just about every wild animal you can imagine, from playful lion cubs to giant crocodiles to menacing but sadly near-extinct rhinos.

But the first animal I saw the morning we woke up in Nairobi, having flown in late the night before, was a horse – a flashy chestnut Thoroughbred type hacking with his rider along Nairobi’s crumbling roads.

Horses in Kenya? It hadn’t even crossed my mind.

I had never gone on safari before, but one of the unexpected things I discovered about it is that you spend most of the time bumping along in an ancient Land Rover. The wild animals completely ignore the cars, and you can pull up within feet of zebra, giraffes, hyenas, pretty much anything except Cape buffalo, mean and distressingly large animals that are known to charge.

If you want to hike, you either need a guide in a car within running distance, or to walk with an armed guard (remember you are walking among lions, cheetahs and leopards!). We did both, and it was a refreshing change from the car’s confines and exhaust. But with us on foot, the animals were wary; we couldn’t get within 100 yards of the antelope and gazelles that were within touching distance from the car.

I quickly realized that the best way to see the wildlife without having to sit in a car was from horseback.

So one day I set off for a nearby barn. It was primarily a polo boarding facility, with a small dusty yard ringed by shedrow stalls. I was introduced to my mount, a bay Thoroughbred named Robot. (Not his actual name. I asked the guys to repeat it twice and always heard “Robot” although it was clearly a Maasai word, not, you know, Robot.)

Robot was about 16 hands, in good weight, with only some minor skin fungus. He was decked out in English tack with a snaffle bridle – Kenya is a former British colony.

Along with my guide, a young guy named David, we headed out from the yard and out into the bush, which is what Kenyans call the wild spaces in the country. I peppered David with questions.

Turnout? The horses are turned out loose in the bush with a guard to keep them safe from predators.

There’s no ring. Where do you ride? Just along the paths trod by the horses. The polo ponies are trailered out to another facility to train. The Kenyan bush footing is really bad because aardvarks dig holes overnight to look for ants, and you never know where the next aardvark hole is going to be.

How long have you been riding? David had been riding for 10 years but never had a lesson.

We hacked among the scrubby brush. We were in northern Kenya, which actually reminds me of the southwestern U.S.; it’s quite arid and dominated by bushy acacia trees, some of them covered in three-inch thorns. You would say the grazing is not good. But there were lots of grazers, and before we knew it, we were riding just feet from a young giraffe nibbling on acacia.

David knew the routine. He urged me to take Robot up alongside the giraffe, who was giving us a little side-eye. As for Robot, he was less than pleased to leave his happy place with his nose up David’s horse’s butt. But I gave him some pony club kicks and soon we were within a few yards of the giraffe.

Turns out it is kind of hard to pose with a wild giraffe. They’re not the most cooperative, and Robot wasn’t really enthused either. The best picture got both of us mostly in the frame, and then we went on our way.

We ended up doing an hour loop through the brush, pausing to watch a family of baboons playing in a grove and to pass through a herd of gazelles. David was happy to have a rider with experience, so we trotted and cantered down the trail where it was broad and flat. I was surprised by Robot’s balance and movement. Even as a rent-a-horse, his Thoroughbred athleticism couldn’t be denied. He was a nice animal.

As we hit a narrow dirt road, Robot perked up, and I knew we were almost home. Once back in the yard, I hopped off at the hitching post and the guys took off Robot’s tack, and he immediately trotted back to his stall without a goodbye.

Well, it was nice meeting you, Robot. Thanks for taking me to see the giraffes.

Suzannah Evans is a writer/editor for Mythic Landing Events.

Mythic Landing Is Happy To Announce Yet Another Talented Client Has Joined Our Team!

Jotunheimens Staller has most recently joined the MLE team. Jotunheimens Staller is the home of FEI dressage competitor Maat van Uitert. Team JS can be seen at National and International shows competing from Prix St. George through Grand Prix.

Jotunheimens Staller offers multiple top-notch services ranging from customized training programs to quality field care programs. The team currently focuses very closely on their two FEI horses, Sublime (I-1), and Nikita (Grand Prix). In addition, to the team’s current competition focus is the team’s concentration on breeding top-class dressage prospects.

MLE is currently assisting Team JS on their monthly newsletters in order to keep everyone in the know of their advancing endeavors.

Love this picture!

Here is a picture of Heath, Whisper and I taken at FCF! Right before he headed off to the airport back to Australia.
I got to have a second ride with Heath the following Sunday after Whisper's lesson. It was on another 4 y/o FCF homebred, DeLiza owned by Brett Schrack of Baltimore, Md. We have high hopes for her future. Heath agreed that she certainly has the potential for the upper levels of dressage. Keep an eye out for us on the show circuit next spring! FEI 5 year olds/2nd Level? :)

Lesson with my favorite Olympian - Heath Ryan

Last Saturday the 20th my mom, Vicki, headed to the airport to pick up my favorite clinician. Heath Ryan! The most special part of this trip is, Heath is staying at our farm (Flying Chesterfield Farm) for the majority of his 2 week trip to the states. With his busy schedule Heath usually only has time once a year for clinics in the US.
On Sunday and Monday Heath taught at Playland Farm in Union Bridge, Md. Located only minutes from FCF. I was lucky enough to snag one of the ever popular lessons with Heath on Sunday evening. I rode our 4 y/o sport pony Whisper to Heaven in a group jump lesson with 2 others. It turned out to be the most well matched group lesson of the day. The three of us kept Heath on his toes, going round after round through the grid with near perfection. I was on the smallest horse in the group at only 13.2 1/2HH. When he sent me around for my first go to the grid with all the rails up and at a canter he said “Now Nicki, you may have to have a little MORE canter than these other guys.” HA! Whisper the wonder pony strikes! I was met with a "WHOA! Not what I was expecting!" Whisper LOVES to jump and attacked the grid with maybe a little too much GO. "She would jump through the roof if we let her" Heath said. "It's great to have that talent but, now she needs to learn how to go quietly to her fences."
Which I spent the rest of the lesson trying to tell her was a better idea. Heath is always teaching the little technical details that matter the most. Always pushing you to be the best you can be that day with that horse. He always wants you to be accountable for whats happening during the exercises. So you are better prepared when he leaves and you try the exercises again. As usual after a lesson with Heath I felt inspired and confident about Whisper and her talents that I believed were there all along.

One of the advantages to Heath staying at our farm is the special one on one time we've had to pick his brain about breeding, training and competition. My dream has always been to become an upper level rider with the ultimate goal being the Olympics. I figured since I had an Olympian sitting across the table from me I better speak up with any questions I had. What steps I needed to take to even start seeing that dream become any sort of reality. Heath has always told me I am a talented rider and that still stands.YAY! He gave the advice that if I don't try at all to make my goals that I will undoubtedly regret it later on. He reassured me that you don't have to have the most money or the fanciest horse to make it. So, another of our 4 y/o homebreds owned by a dear friend of mine better be ready to work! Heath agreed that she is a great place to start. Next step is finding a regular trainer to work with that has
successfully competed at or is competing at Grand Prix. I have some guidelines to work on from there and I cant wait to get started.

WHY OH WHY must Heath be in Australia?! Until the next time, I will be working hard to show off my new accomplishments when he returns!

September & October Clinic Dates: Susan Graham White and Stephen Bradley

I'm starting to realize just how spoiled we are to have Stephen Bradley and Susan Graham White come to A Bit Better Farm every month!  I have dates scheduled for September and October with both clinicians.  E-mail me to sign up: margaret@mythiclandingevents.com.

Wednesday, September 7th & Wednesday, October 26th: Stephen Bradley

Lessons are small group (no more than 3 riders per lesson) and cost $110 per rider.

Private lessons are also available (limited availability) and are 45-minutes and cost $125.

We start around 1pm and go until we're done.

Tuesday, September 13th & Tuesday, October 11th: Susan Graham White

Lessons are 45-minute privates and cost $125.

We start at 11:30am and go until 6:45pm.

Here's a little more info on Stephen and Susan ...

Stephen and In The Fog at Bromont CCI**.

Stephen Bradley: Eventer Stephen Bradley has a long list of accomplishments: 1992 Olympic team member and '93 Burghley CCI**** winner with Sassy Reason. '93 US Olympic Committee Equestrian Athlete of the Year; '96 Rolex Kentucky winner with Doctor DoLittle; '03 gold-medal winning US Pan American Championships team member and '05 Foxhall Cup CCI*** winner with Brandenburg's Joshua; '07 gold-medal winning US Pan American Championships team member with From. Stephen enjoys teaching all levels of riders from beginners to the advanced competitor. His enthusiasm, talent for communication, and ability to inspire confidence in the horse and rider especially make him a hit with the pony clubbers! When trianing with Stephen, you can be confident that you will receive expert instruction for your level of riding.  You can learn more about Stephan at www.stephensbradley.com.

Susan and Revelle at Young Horse Finals.

Susan Graham White: Not only is Susan an active upper-level dressage competitor, but she also judges at many of the area shows where YOU compete. Susan is an FEI dressage rider and trainer based at Wolfhaven Farm in southern Maryland. She has been an active instructor, trainer, and competitor in dressage for 25 years, and has successfully trained and coached students through the Advanced 3-day level in eventing, and to FEI levels in dressage. SHe is also a licensed national USEA dressage and event judge, and an international FEI event judge. Susan travel extensively teaching and judging both internationally and throughout the United States. Take this opportunity to learn what a licensed judge has to say! You can learn more about Susan at www.sgwdressage.com.

Kind words from Katie Ruppel

Katie with Sir Donovan at The Fork CIC*** earlier this year.

I first met Katie through the COTH bulletin boards and when she moved to my area, she quickly became one of my favorite people. It's been fun watching her work through the levels of eventing and I know that without a doubt she'll be rocking it around Rolex in the spring.

It's been a pleasure working with Katie to promote her various clinics, fundraisers, etc.  And it's always nice when clients send over a great quote for the web site.  :-)

"Margaret and Mythic Landing Events have been a godsend for my business. My favorite service is the "E-Blast" which I use frequently. They always look polished, professional, and reach a huge audience." ~Katie Ruppel of Yellow Rose Eventing, Advanced-level event rider 


Thanks Katie for the kind words!

MLE Is Pleased To Announce Another Fantastic New Client!

MLE is excited to add Waters Edge Farm to our team! Many of the Maryland locals know Waters Edge Farm quite well, but for the out of towners- Waters Edge is a top quality farm offering full care boarding, training, lessons, breeding, and sales. The facility is uniquely situated on 65 bucolic acres bordering Piney Run Reservoir in Sykesville, Maryland. Waters Edge Farm specializes in the training of horse and rider from the Beginner Novice to intermediate level. Additionally, the farm excels in the breaking and training of young horses and the re-training of horses off the track for other disciplines.

The main trainer on the premises, Liz Patrick currently is competing actively at recognized events at the Intermediate Level on her lifetime horse, Toast Of Manhattan. You will also find her at most of the local events competing her young horses, as well!

MLE is assisting Liz in creating a brand new website and managing her ad campaigns! Be on the look out for her upcoming debut of the farm website and the phenomenal horses she is offering for sale.

Worth Magazine Names Voltaire Design Founder An ‘Entrepreneur to Watch’

CONGRATS to Brice Goguet for being recognized for business savvy and creative vision

Worth Magazine, an elite financial investment publication, has selected Voltaire Design founder and president Brice Goguet as one of its “20 Entrepreneurs to Watch” in 2011.

Other young entrepreneurs featured in “The List Issue” of the magazine come from the worlds of fashion, the Internet, defense and more – industries that would be expected to show up in a high-profile investment magazine. Goguet and Voltaire Design were the only representative from the equestrian realm.

“Our criteria in selecting our ‘20 Entrepreneurs to Watch’ incorporated several elements – we were in search of viable businesses who offered exceptional products or services, entrepreneurs who were both interesting and relatively under the radar, and ventures that showed promise for the future,” said Lynsey Santimays, associate editor at Worth Magazine. “Brice and Voltaire Design hit the mark on all accounts. The bespoke saddles and boots he produces are an excellent representation of the art of craftsmanship and luxury. We were excited to have him on our entrepreneurs list, and will continue to watch what he does next.”

Citing Goguet’s creative vision in starting his own company, the magazine notes that Voltaire Design rapidly gained more than 300 clients, including two-time Olympic gold medalist Beezie Madden.

Goguet founded Voltaire Design in 2009. He oversaw the creation of a line of saddles, tall boots and accessories that combine the best French craftsmanship with a modern, fashion-forward flair.

“Building Voltaire Design from the ground up has been both thrilling and grueling,” Goguet said. “We’ve had so much positive feedback from riders, which is wonderful. To be recognized by Worth Magazine is a very nice nod.”

To learn more about Voltaire Design, visit www.voltaire-design.com. Worth Magazine is sent to 110,000 high-net-worth individuals in the United States, and is available on newsstands. It is published by Sandow Media. 

Playland Farm to host Heath Ryan Clinic

Heath Ryan, Australian Olympic Coach, World Cup dressage rider, and international event competitor will be at Playland Farm for an exclusive two-day clinic.

http://www.playlandequestriancenter.com/heath.html

August Clinic Dates

Really quickly ...

Both clinics will be at A Bit Better Farm in Brookeville, Maryland.

Stephen Bradley on Wednesday, August 10th
Small group jump lessons (time varies depending on number of riders, but no more than 3 per group) - $110 per rider

A limited number of private lessons (dressage or jump) available for $125 per rider

Susan Graham White on Tuesday, August 16th
Private dressage lessons - $125 per rider

E-mail me at margaret@mythiclandingevents.com to sign up!

Helpful links:
Stephen S. Bradley Eventing

Susan Graham White Dressage

A Bit Better Farm

2 quick videos from Loch Moy

I headed out to Loch Moy yesterday to watch MLE client Katie Wherley of Rock Solid Training and Mary Macklin of Red Hawk Eventing tackle the Intermediate courses.  They both did awesome!  Here are videos of them through the water:

Mary Macklin and Mahogany Beauto

Katie Wherley and Mr. Indiscretion

Meet Fly Me Home (aka Fritz)

Meet Fritz, the fun new horse my friend is letting me ride.  He's the king of the long spot, so we're working on that.  But not bad for only our 3rd time jumping together.

Lissell is perfect

Check out Lissell at Southwind's Combined Test this past weekend.  She was quite pleased with herself after this and was a happy happy horse for the rest of the day.

Stephen Bradley at ABBF on Wednesday, July 13th

Stephen Bradley will be returning to A Bit Better Farm on Wednesday, July 13th.  He can only stay for 4 hours, so I have to limit this clinic to 10 people.  So I would suggest signing up early if you'd like a slot.

I'm going to try to avoid private lessons this go around since we're limited to the hours.  So the small group lessons will remain $110.

Any questions ... let me know!  margaret@mythiclandingevents.com

Exciting News! Four Star Management and Mythic Landing Events Are Teaming Up!

Four Star Management's Ashley Colonel and Mythic Landing Events' Margaret Rizzo are combining forces to offer top-of-the-line services in marketing and business management.

Ashley Colonel and Four Star Management offer remote services from simple monthly bookkeeping to full facility management, including invoicing, bill paying, bank reconciliations, travel arrangements, and equestrian paperwork (event entries, USADA forms, grant applications, etc.).  They can track your expenses and income by horse, by client, by event, and by competition season.

Margaret Rizzo's Mythic Landing Events offer services for professional riders, boarding facilities, event facilities, and more. From large and complex to small and simple, Mythic Landing Events offers planning, coordination, marketing, development, and public relations services to equestrian clients.

It's important to know where your money comes from and where it goes - plus, be able to make educated decisions for your business. Timely and accurate invoicing ensures you're never left holding the bill again.  And with the extra cash flow, you can put your money to work for you. 

Combined with a comprehensive marketing plan, we can help businesses see an accurate depiction of their business which allows them the freedom to make educated business decisions.

Get back in the saddle and let us take the headache out of your daily operations. 

"The union of Four Star Management and Mythic Landing Events is a marriage made in heaven. Our clients need not look anywhere else as we are now able to provide them the management they need to be a success."

~ Ashley Colonel 

"It seemed logical for Mythic Landing Events to team up with Four Star Management. Our businesses are extremely complimentary of each other; and I'm excited to now be able to offer our clients a more complete and comprehensive package."

~ Margaret Rizzo

To get started today, please contact either Margaret or Ashley ...

Margaret Rizzo                                                           Ashley Colonel  Mythic Landing Events, LLC                                        Four Star Management  margaret@mythiclandingevents.com                                info@fourstarequine.com

Read What People Are Saying ...  "I'd rather be riding my horses and teaching my students than worrying about the books. Four Star Management keeps my business organized and our farm on budget." - Amy Tryon, two-time Olympian, Olympic Bronze medalist and WEG Gold and Bronze medalist    "Margaret Rizzo has put together a team of creative talent to help riders, competitions, and any equestrian cause with its marketing and promotion. They will help find sponsors, put you on the internet, find your way through the social internet media, help with press contacts, and even manage your affairs on the day of the event. Were it not for this group's help, today's symposium could never have happened." ~ Steuart Pittman, Dodon Farm and Retired Racehorse Training Project    "Ashley's organization and management skills kept our facility running perfectly. I never had to worry about the barn and could focus on the horses and the clients thanks to Ashley." - Kris Montgomery, Grand Prix Dressage Rider (Previously head trainer at Spring Creek Equestrian Center and now based in Hampton, VA.) "Margaret has helped me tremendously in becoming more organized  in the way I deal with my clients.  Also, she has been invaluable in her assistance in dealing with sponsorship relationships.  She has been a great asset to our team and we look forward to continuing our relationship!"   ~ Courtney Cooper, C Square Farm "I was exposed to some new ideas which will be useful in my horsemanship. Overall, it was an interesting, fun and educational week. Well worth the investment!" - 2009 Olympic Experience Camp camper, Jude Mackenzie "As President of the Professional Riders Organization, I would like to thank you for all the work you have done on our behalf and your sponsorship trades. I know you have been a real asset to PRO. We look forward to continuing to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between PRO and Mythic Landing Events." ~Phillip Dutton, President of PRO

Susan Graham White Dressage Clinic: Saturday, June 11th

A Bit Better Farm is going to be hosting an impromptu clinic with Susan Graham White this coming Saturday, June 11th.  

Lessons will be privates and 45-minutes each.  The cost is $125 per rider.  Payment is due at the beginning of your lesson.  Credit cards payments can be made available, just let me know if you'd like to do that.  

This is the perfect tune-up for those competing at Seneca the following weekend! Remember that you can have a traditional lesson, or do a fix-a-test lesson.

More on Susan: Not only is Susan an active upper-level competitor, but she also judges at many of area shows where YOU compete. Take this opportunity to learn what a licensed judge has to say! You can choose between either doing a traditional lesson OR having a "fix-a-test" lesson. You choose!

Susan is an FEI dressage rider and trainer based at Wolfhaven Farm in southern Maryland. She has been an active instructor, trainer, and competitor in dressage for 25 years, and have successfully trained and coached students through the Advanced 3-day level in eventing, and to FEI levels in dressage. She is also a licensed national USEA dressage and event judge, and an international FEI event judge. Susan travels extensively teaching and judging both internationally and throughout the United States.

Susan's web site: www.sgwdressage.com

Boyd Martin & True Prospect Farm

Here are some important links for those wanting more info ...

Initial press release

Boyd Martin True Prospect Recovery Fund

My thoughts and prayers are with Boyd and his team.  I can't even imagine the heart break they are going through now.

The Moose is back!

Moosetracks attacking the ditch last summer.

Yup ... I've started to ride the Moosetracks again.  I'm not sure if our time away has made our hearts grow fonder, but we're really liking each other these days.  He seems to be growing up a bit and taking responsibility for his body.  I've jumped him twice now and have been more than impressed with how genuine he is being to his fences.  Good pony!

I brought him over to A Bit Better Farm today for a lesson with Kelley Williams.  And I think we're back on track.  It's like we've picked up right where we left off over the winter.  Tomorrow will be the tell take sign as I'm going to flat him.  I might start him off on the lunge in side reins, just to ensure a good ride.  :-)

The entry for Seneca will be going in the mail shortly!

GREAT WEEKEND!

Woohoo! Good weekend at Jersey for MLE friends and clients. Courtney Cooper and Tag 11th in the CCI**, Katie Ruppel and Donald 4th in the CCI***, and Stephen Bradley and Simon 6th in the CIC**. AND even more exciting, Holly Erdely and Mr. Moosetracks finished 4th at Loch Moy yesterday. :-D

Good Luck at Jersey!

A quick GOOD LUCK to MLE clients Courtney Cooper and Stephen Bradley.  Both are competing at Jersey Fresh this weekend, aboard two extremely talented two-star horses.  Courtney is piloting her homebred Who's A Star (aka Tag) in the CCI**.  And Stephen is competing in the CIC** with the lovely grey In The Fog (aka Simon).

UPDATE: Stephen is in 2nd place after dressage.  Woohoo!  Courtney rides tomorrow before the lunch break.

MLE Welcomes New Account Manager!

I'm thrilled to announce that Mythic Landing Events has a new Account Manager!  Lindsay Kelley has recently joined the staff and is hitting the ground running.  From Middleburg, Virginia, Lindsay is a well-connected horsewoman with experience in eventing, show jumping, foxhunting and even steeplechasing!

If you, or someone you know, has been thinking about contacting MLE about working together, now is the time!  Feel free to contact myself (margaret@mythiclandingevents.com) or Lindsay (lindsay@mythiclandingevents.com) to learn how to get started.  No project is too small (or too big!).

Special thanks to Beth Sokohl for making the connection!

More on Lindsay:  Lindsay Kelley is a horsewoman at heart who is eager to bring her passion, knowledge, and education together to support the Mythic Landing Events team. Lindsay’s unique resume includes various positions from event planning and marketing at the Gold Cup Association to consulting for Booz Allen Hamilton. With a degree in Public Relations from George Mason University, she combines her skills, experience, and education to add value to the company and clients alike.

Lindsay grew up in Middleburg, Virginia where she became well connected in the equestrian scene in multiple different disciplines. She has been heavily involved in Eventing, Show Jumping, Fox-Hunting, and even Steeplechasing. It is obvious that Lindsay’s passion roots in the training, competing, and development of horses, in general.

Lindsay spends her free time training young ex-racehorses for their new careers, eventing, and running.

Susan Graham White Dressage Clinic: Monday, May 30th

Susan will be coming back to Oatland Stables on Monday, May 30th.  This is perfect timing for those wanting a tune-up before Waredaca, Rubicon and Seneca.  Remember that you can have a traditional lesson, or do a fix-a-test lesson.

Lesson slots are $125 for a 45-minute private lesson. Payment is due at the beginning of your lesson. If you'd like to pay with credit card, please let me know when you sign up and I'll give you directions for that.

Lessons run from 11am - 6:45pm.

Questions?? E-mail me at margaret@mythiclandingevents.com.

More on Susan: Not only is Susan an active upper-level competitor, but she also judges at many of area shows where YOU compete. Take this opportunity to learn what a licensed judge has to say! You can choose between either doing a traditional lesson OR having a "fix-a-test" lesson. You choose!

Susan is an FEI dressage rider and trainer based at Wolfhaven Farm in southern Maryland. She has been an active instructor, trainer, and competitor in dressage for 25 years, and have successfully trained and coached students through the Advanced 3-day level in eventing, and to FEI levels in dressage. She is also a licensed national USEA dressage and event judge, and an international FEI event judge. Susan travels extensively teaching and judging both internationally and throughout the United States.

Susan's web site: www.sgwdressage.com

Some things never change ...

 Yesterday was spent at A Bit Better Farm for another Stephen Bradley clinic.  The plan was to ride outside and do a "cross country position and skills" lesson in the bottom field.  But of course the weather had other plans, so back to the indoor we went.

Lissell started a series of pentosan a few weeks ago, and it's been interested to see her change.  She's officially 19 years old now, and I thought that some extra joint support would make a great birthday present.  Since we started, Lissell's flatwork is just getting better and better.  Yay Lissell!

So back to our lesson yesterday.  I was riding with Mary Macklin on her lovely young horse California Comet (related to the great Courageous Comet).  Both Lissell and Callie has been going Beginner Novice with an eye on Novice.  Well after the lesson, we concluded that the two mares skipped Novice and went right to Training.  It's been a while since I jumped a 3' square oxer, and I think my eyes got a little big looking at it.  But Lissell is Lissell, and jumping is her thing, and she's just awesome at it.  She may be older now, but she still loves the sport.  It's SO incredibly amazing to ride a horse that you don't have to worry about, you can just concentrate on learning.  Since our little tumble in the water, I've been struggling with a few positional issues, and it's so cool to be able to concentrate 110% on your own riding and position because you have 110% faith in your horse to get the job done.

Then it came time to work on Lissell.  We were supposed to quietly canter into a simple 1-stride to 1-stride and Stephen wanted me to compress Lissell's stride.  This caused a bit of a meltdown for Lissell, as she was pretty sure that I was completely out of line to ask this of her.  After a few circles, we came to a compromise and she was good (not great).  Stephen and I talk about it a little, and he stresses that at 19 we're not going to change Lissell, so we have to finesse her and meet her in the middle.

As Mary and I were cooling down our horses in the wash rack, she made a comment about how it's interesting to watch a horse like Lissell over a period of time, because some horses never change.  It made me laugh, because she's right.  Lissell is who she is.  Is she dramatic? Yes.  Is she difficult to ride? Yes.  Does she take care of me? Yes.  So while Lissell may never change, I definitely can.  I can learn to ride her better, and soak up every lesson that she has to teach me.