Spring 2024 Hunt Country Quarterly is Now Available Online!
TRHC-HCQuarterly-Spring24 is now available! Download it in PDF form here.
Carolinas Show Hunter Hall of Fame Press Release
The Carolinas Show Hunter Hall of Fame is deeply saddened and disturbed by the recent news involving Mr. Vick Russell and the death of a horse caught in the middle of a family dispute. The alleged criminal conduct of Mr. Russell, if true, violates the high standards of the Carolinas Show Hunter Hall of Fame and our entire equestrian community. We are monitoring developments in the situation and once all of the facts are more fully known and understood, we will review Mr. Russell’s induction into the Hall of Fame, and take all action necessary. We are committed to maintaining the integrity of the Hall of Fame and its members. We appreciate your patience while working through this unprecedented situation.
Angela Millon Co-Chair CSHHF
Joann Loheac Co-Chair CSHHF
Spring 2023 Hunt Country Quarterly is Now Available Online!
Winter 2023 Hunt Country Quarterly is Now Available Online!
Sara Bailey Wins Steeplechase Poster Art Contest
Tryon Riding & Hunt Club is pleased to announce the winner of our 75th Block House Steeplechase art contest! This contest was open to local high school and collegiate students, and prizes included cash for first, second, and third places ($1000, $500, and $250), as well as tickets to the Steeplechase itself.
This year's winner is Sara Bailey, 19, from Spartanburg, South Carolina. Sara has been painting for almost 6 years but has been drawn to art throughout her childhood. She mainly works in oils, but also enjoys watercolors and colored pencils. She had a personal exhibition at the Spartanburg Methodist College during their "Junior Artist Project," and she is currently studying studio art at Converse University.
Congratulations to Sara Bailey! Look for more information on the Steeplechase, returning this year on April 15th, 2023.
Interested in bringing back the Block House Amateur Race? Let us know!
Tryon Riding & Hunt Club is gauging interest in bringing back the amateur race for the Block House Steeplechase. Email office@trhc1925.org to let us know!
Fall Edition of the Horse Country Quarterly is Now Available Online!
PRESS RELEASE: Tryon Riding and Hunt Club Charity II Horse Show Thrills Hunter and Jumper Fans!
Tryon, NC, July 21, 2022 Summer treats like Ice cream sundaes, cookies and breakfast muffins were just a few of the delicious extras that the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club provided riders during their TR&HC Charity II Horse Show at Tryon International Equestrian Center held July 5th – 10th. The 19th annual show drew over 1100 horses from all over the world for exceptional hunter and jumping performances!
TR&HC hosted a hospitality tent next to the Grand Hunter ring that was stocked with snacks and goodies for riders, trainers, grooms and of course, their horses! They also provided ‘grab and go’ breakfast muffins all weekend to help jump-start the daily competition.
On Friday afternoon, the club sponsored a Derby viewing party at the Legend’s Club at TIEC with complimentary food and drink, along with prime seating for the $30,000 International Hunter Derby. “We wanted to show our gratitude to our volunteers and sponsors for all their support”, explained Angie Millon, TR&HC President. “We felt they would appreciate the spectacular derby class experience, featuring some of the top horses and riders in the country.”
TR&HC also stayed true to their philanthropic mission by donating to two deserving local charities: Thermal Belt Outreach, providing food & shelter assistance to the Foothills, and Foothills Equine Rescue Association (FERA). “We are thrilled that both of our charity horse shows allow us to contribute to these organizations,” TR&HC Treasurer, Joanna Gibbs explained. “It is important for us to give back to the wonderful community that we all cherish.”
This year’s winners included:
Holmberg Trophy - Grand Green Hunter: Affirm owned by Parker Peacock and ridden by Victoria Colvin
Eleanor Moffit Trophy - Grand 3’6” Junior Hunter: Golden Years owned and ridden by Mary Caroline Nolan
Brownlands Graduation Day - Grand Regular Pony Hunter: Goldhills As You Like It, owned and ridden by Katherine Mercer
Stoney Knoll Trophy (Tie) - Grand Child/Adult Jumper: Bolero D’Armanville ridden and owned by Grace Ann Nolan, and
Philosophical ridden by Jayden Toomy and owned by Hannah Brandt
Will Do Trophy - Grand Adult Amateur Hunter: The Silver Screen owned and ridden by Payton Porter
Laughin Place Trophy - Grand 3’6” Amateur Owner Hunter Champion: Silver Lining ridden and owned by Callie Seaman
Penny Ante Trophy - Grand Children’s Hunter: As Ever, ridden by Khloe McSwain and owned by Ella Trotz
The Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Charity II Grand Prix Trophy: Valentine Car ridden by Sharn Wordley and owned by Della Wordley
Shade Tree Farm Perpetual Trophy – International Hunter Derby: Front Page ridden by Colin Syquia and owned by Cynthia Sulzberger
Summer Edition of the Horse Country Quarterly is Now Available Online!
Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Charity Horse Show: Pinning Winners, Supporting Local Charities
Tryon, NC (June 21, 2022) The Tryon Riding & Hunt Club’s (TR&HC) 94th Charity Horse Show lived up to its historic tradition for competitive excellence and philanthropy, as more than 600 horses from all over the country experienced the hospitality and excitement of this historic event.
The five-day show, held June 7th to 12th at the Tryon International Equestrian Center also creates awareness and financial support for local charities. Two non-profit organizations, Steps to Hope and The Sanctuary at Red Bell Run, received donations totaling $6,500 to support their worthy causes.
Competitors were welcomed with boxes of cookies, ringside-to-go breakfasts, lemonade and other treats. Thursday evening was a hit for dog lovers when Ron Danta of Danny and Ron’s Rescue was featured at a book signing for their new children’s book series “Life in the Doghouse”. Friday night showcased the return of the popular Carolinas Show Hunter Hall of Fame after a two-year hiatus due to COVID. After the hall of fame induction ceremony, guests had prime seats to view the spectacular $40,000 International Hunter Derby.
“We try to bring back that personal touch and hospitality of the small horse shows of the past,” said Angie Millon, TR&HC President and committee chair of the Charity Shows. “It was exciting to see such a great turnout and watch the outstanding competition!”
This year’s winners included:
Ernst “Pete” Mahler Trophy: Grand Green Hunter Champion
Hunter Kay ad Undeniable
Barbara Jimenez Memorial Trophy: International Hunter Derby
Matt Cyphert and No Secret de la Pomme
Roger and Jennifer Smith Green River Farm Trophy: Grand Prix
Connor Swail and Vital Chance De La Roque
Boyle Family Trophy: Grand Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Champion
Isa Lippman and Helmig-K
Jane Raoul Bingham Trophy: Grand Child/Adult Jumper Champion
Gabriella Hoard-West and Aaron 287
Nora Flynn Trophy: Grand 3’6 Junior Hunter Champion
Sarah Rabb and Alpine’s 3.14
Maude Carr Trophy: Grand 3’3 Junior Hunter Champion
Margaret M Jacobs and Cassinir
Count Cadence Trophy: Grand 3’6 Amateur Owner Champion
Kathy Serio and Moody Blues
Rolling Hills Stable Trophy: Grand 3’3 Amateur Owner Champion
Kathleen Feeley and Debonair
The Director’s Trophy: Grand Adult Amateur Champion
Stephanie King and Limitless
The Bellhop Trophy: Grand Children’s Hunter Champion
Grace Hogan and Harbor Walk
Brownlands’ Graduation Day Trophy: Grand Pony Hunter Champion
Madeline Rubin and Rockaway
The Ashlyn Wyman Trophy: ASPCA Maclay Winner
Parker Peacock
The Betty Reynolds Oare Trophy: Grand Equitation Champion
Parker Peacock
Photos courtesy of Natalie Suto
Check out the Carolina Show Hunter Hall of Fame Teaser and Promo videos!
TR&HC Announces 2022 Equestrian Grant Program
The Tryon Riding and Hunt Club is dedicated to providing community support as it develops equestrian sport. Consistent with that mission, TR&HC is offering an Equestrian Grant program for 2022. Up to $3,500 will be available to assist those age 18 and above in the Tryon area pursuing a career in the equestrian or related industry. This will ensure we can sustain the professional expertise needed to keep the sport vibrant and equipped to excel.
Grants made through the program are for those interested in achieving certifications or licenses through professional, trade or technical programs that will allow them to work in areas related to equestrian sport. This might be EAP tuition, Farrier Certification, Course Building or Design, Show Official Licensure, Turf Management or other related skill areas. This program is distinct from the Club’s already successful scholarship program for those seeking college degrees. Club President Angie Millon noted that “the Club realizes there are many career pathways and thus the Equestrian Grant Program is a way to reinforce that.”
For 2022, applications are due in June, and the amount awarded will depend upon the number of successful applicants. Joanne Gibbs, TR&HC Philanthropist Team Lead, explains, “Our equestrian grants accomplish several aims, first by inviting people with a love of horses to consider a career in the field. Then, as part of the application process, they are asked to outline a path that fulfills that interest. The financial support helps them take the important first steps toward that dream.”
Neither Board Members nor those employed by the Club are eligible to apply. Awarded grants are not sent directly to the applicant, but rather directly to the organization, school, trade college, etc., for which the award was granted. In the event there are qualifying out-of-pocket expenses, they must be approved by TR&HC and accompanied by paid receipts for reimbursement to occur.
We look forward to giving a leg up to the future stars of our sport! The application can be found on the grant page.
TR&HC Horse Country Quarterly V2N1 is now live!
TR&HC Horse Country Quarterly V1N4 is now live!
Morris the Horse Hats Available!
TR&HC donates $5000 to PEER
The Tryon Riding & Hunt Club is pleased to present Dianne Joyce of PEER with a $5,000 donation following their support and presence at our Morris (the) Horse Trials on October 23-24. TR&HC has always supported PEER and the wonderful and very important work that they do for the community in times of great stress for our equine friends and their owners.
The Horse Country Quarterly Fall 2021 is out!
PRESS RELEASE: TR&HC’s Mane Event Hosts Friesian stallions Ivan and Nikki
(Tryon - Sept. 2, 2021) – Horse-loving families will be in for an amazing treat when two famous stallions strut their stuff at the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club’s “ Mane Event” on Sept. 25 at Harmon Field in Tryon.
Trainer Andrew Pearman, founder of Pearman Ranch, will show off his gorgeous black Fresian stallions Ivan and Nikki at 1 p.m. to help collect food and raise money for a new community event called “Feed the Foothills”, organized by the Foothills Chamber of Commerce.
Ivan, a 3-year-old purebred KFPS Friesian stallion, is an internet sensation who has captured the hearts of thousands of horse enthusiasts all over the world. At the Mane Event, Ivan will be showing off his exceptional carriage horse moves. Accompanying him will be the handsome Nick De Jong Dairy, aka Nikki, a young Friesian colt who has already earned the coveted first premie at the Friesian inspection.
“We are thrilled to have Andrew and his wonderful stallions appear in Tryon at Harmon Field,” says Leigh Borreson, Executive Director of TR&HC. “These horses are beautiful and captivating to watch. I can’t wait to have everyone meet them after their performances!”
Pearman Ranch, a family-operated saddle seat and show driving horse farm in North Carolina, specializes in Friesian breeding and training. Pearman’s methods include intense handling, bonding, playing and training – as a result, these impressive horses are very people-friendly. Little wonder that the Pearman Ranch horses have a highly loyal following, watched through Andrew’s multiple social media channels.
For more information about the event, please contact the TR&HC at (828) 351-9709 or email office@trhc1925.org.
PRESS RELEASE: One Thousand Horse and Riders Compete at Tryon Riding & Hunt Clubs’ Charity II Horse Show
Tryon, NC July 16, 2021—The culmination of five full days of stiff competition at the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club’s (TR&HC) Charity II Horse show held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) came Sunday afternoon when winners were awarded the Club’s grand championship trophies. The Club awarded nine trophies at the event.
The sold-out event brought approximately 1,000 horses and riders from across the country. Adding to the excitement, TIEC hosted $137,000 Grand Prix Saturday night attracting top riders from all over the world. “We are into our 6th year of sponsoring and hosting the Charity shows with TIEC, each year the partnership has become stronger,” says Angie Millon, TR&HC vice president and show chairman who also competed at the event. “We try hard to keep the small-town warmth, hospitality and sense of community that the TR&HC shows are known for. The TIEC team manages this huge multi-ring five-day horse show seamlessly.
Millon points out the enormous changes since the TR&HC held its first horse show at Harmon Field back in the 1920’s when it was a one day one-ring event. “Horse showing is now a multi-million-dollar industry. Thanks to our partnership with TIEC, TR&HC’s A rated shows can thrive and continue to grow and improve and continue to positively impact on our local economy.”
In addition to the competition, TR&HC sponsored a Thursday evening “meet and greet” with hunter rider superstars Liza Towell Boyd and Havens Schatt, and Jack Towell, head trainer at Finally Farm in Camden. Open to the public, they discussed how to produce top international derby horses and fielded questions from the engaged audience for over an hour. Attendees took what they had learned straight to the ring as several competed in the three derbies over the following days- a $50,000 International Hunter Derby, a $5,000 National Derby, and a $10,000 Pony Hunter Derby. “The National Pony Finals and the International Derby finals are held each year in early August at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Many of the top talented horses and riders used this show as their last tune-up before heading to the finals,” Millon explains.
Millon points out that a special effort was made to make it a fun and memorable show for all the junior exhibitors with barn decorating contests, a costume class, a horseless (hobby horse) horse show, popsicles, and free ice cream vouchers awarded. Best of all, spectators were allowed back on the show grounds to cheer on the riders and their horses and enjoy the activities!
2021 TR&HC CHARITY 2 PERPETUAL TROPHY WINNERS
- Grand Prix Trophy: 2021 Hilton Van de Breepoel and Brittni Raflowitz
- Eleanor Moffit Trophy (Grand Junior Hunter):2021 Attaboy and Elle Gibbs
- Holmberg Trophy (Grand Green Hunter): 2021 Private Conversation and Erica Quinn
- Stoney Knoll Trophy (Grand Child/Adult Jumper): 2021 Sekhmet de Keralys & Kaitlyn Kiely
- Laughin Place Trophy (Grand A/O Hunter Ch): 2021 Willie and Sheila Motley
- Brownlands Graduation Day (Grand Pony Hunter): 2021 Baby Blue and Elle Boyd
- Penny Ante Trophy (Grand Children’s Hunter): 2021 Carentino B and Kendall Blabey
- Will Do Trophy (Grand Adult Amateur Hunter): 2021 Contara and Hannah Toohey
- Barbara Jimenez Trophy (Highpoint Adult Hunter from Charity 1 and 2): 2021 Tantara and Susan Reynolds
PRESS RELEASE: Tryon Riding & Hunt Club Names Borreson Executive Director
Tryon, NC-- June 24, 2021 –The Tryon Riding & Hunt Club (TR&HC) has named Leigh Borreson as its new executive director, entrusting its rich 95-year legacy to a experienced professional and former Board member who has served various capacities including marketing, sponsorships and event management
Borreson now assumes additional responsibilities that will create more engagement and visibility for TR&HC in the community. TR&HC President Terry Lynch says, “Leigh is well-prepared for the executive director’s role. She knows the community, the Club and she’s also an equestrian who has successfully competed. Her commitment to the Club’s vision and personal connection with our supporters makes her the ideal choice to be the face of the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club. Leigh understands the culture and character of our area and the important role the Club plays in the community. ”
Her duties will include strategic planning, administrative oversight and membership development and community relations. Borreson will remain a key contributor to marketing and sponsorships and continue to assist with major show events. TR&HC Vice President Angie Millon adds, “The (Executive Director) position demands energy, ‘horse sense’ and passion. Leigh brings all of that and more to our mission.”
Borreson recently left a 30-year career in the staffing industry where she managed sales in several regions growing her employer’s brand. A resident of Landrum SC, she has decades of experience as an accomplished hunter-jumper competitor, and enjoys three horses and five dogs on her own small horse farm.
PRESS RELEASE: Tryon Riding & Hunt Club’s Charity Horse Show Pin Winners as It Supports Three Local Non-Profits
Tryon, N.C. (June 14, 2020) – After a year of pandemic restrictions, the show rings were buzzing with activity and spectators as over 600 horses from all over the United States competed over the historic five-day Tryon Riding & Hunt Club (TR&HC) Charity Horse Show. The 93rd Charity Show, held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center this past week benefits local charities.
“It couldn’t have been more perfect,” says Angie Millon, TR&HC vice president and committee chair of the Charity Shows. “Everyone seemed so thrilled to be back to almost normal conditions. The horses and riders were amazing; the winners outstanding. The competition was elevated to new heights!”
This year’s winners included:
Grand Prix Winner: Roger and Jennifer Smith Green River Farm Perpetual Trophy to Aaron Vale and Elusive
International Hunter Derby Winner: Duncan Family Perpetual Trophy to Dorothy Douglas and MTM Lolah LOL
Grand Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Champion: Boyle Family Perpetual Trophy to Jacqueline Ruyle and San Chano
Grand Child/Adult Jumper Champion: Jane Raoul Bingham Perpetual Trophy to Riley McKesson and Linessa Hof Ter Zeedycke
Grand Junior Hunter Champion: Nora Flynn Perpetual Trophy to Grace Rabb and Nightfall
Grand 3’3" Junior Hunter Champion: Maude Carr Perpetual Trophy to Madeline Rubin and Nuff Said
Grand Amateur Owner Hunter Champion: Count Cadence Perpetual Trophy to Kathy Serio and Moody Blues
Grand 3’3" Amateur Owner Hunter Champion: Rolling Hills Show Stables Perpetual Trophy to Caroline McDaniel and Stiletto
Grand Adult Amateur Hunter Champion: The Director’s Perpetual Trophy to Susan Reynolds and Tantara
Grand Children’s Hunter Champion: The Bellhop Perpetual Trophy to Katelyn Havnaer and Blue Ridge
ASPCA Maclay Winner: The Ashlyn Wyman Perpetual Trophy to Gracie Deel
Grand Equitation Champion: The Betty Reynolds Oare Perpetual Trophy to Gracie Deel
Grand Pony Hunter Champion: Brownlands Graduation Day Perpetual Trophy to Campbell Clement and Howie Do It
Grand Green Hunter Champion: Ernst “Pete” Mahler Perpetual Trophy to Aaron Vale and Jagerbomb
Living up to its tradition of philanthropy and support to local communities, the TR&HC announces three local charities to be the recipients of donations: The Sanctuary at Red Bell Run, Columbus, NC; Hope Remains Ranch, Spartanburg, SC; and Pet Tender Angels, Landrum, SC. Each charity received a check for $2,000.
“It’s gratifying to be able to give back to local charities who contribute so much making life better for people and the animals we love,” says Terry Lynch, Board president.
TR&HC has office hours at our new location
TR&HC moved to its new home office in the heart of Tryon at 112 North Trade Street, Suite 12. We now have office hours! Stop by and see us Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm while you're enjoying beautiful downtown Tryon!
PRESS RELEASE: Over 50 competitors compete at TR&HC’s first Horse and Hound Show since the 1970’s
After 14 days of consecutive sunshine, Saturday brought cloudy skies and continuous rain which did nothing to deter the determination of over 50 competitors at the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club’s Horse and Hound Show, an event that had not been held since the 1970’s.
“After months of careful planning,” says Angie Milon, Easely, S.C. who was lead organizer, “we quickly learned that flexibility is key as Mother Nature unleashed much needed rain. Unfortunately, the hound show was cancelled as yet another sporting event fell victim to the pandemic. But thankfully, FENCE’s covered arena allowed the derbies to run as riders competing over a lush and colorful course designed by show manager Lewis Pack, Columbus, N.C.
Heralding to start of derby, “Tot” Goodwin of Goodwin Hounds, sounded his hunting horn to officially call the class to order.
Cascani, owned by Mary Lantz, ridden by professional Giselle O’Grady of Clear View Farm in Landrum, S.C. took home the $2,500 prize in the TR&HC featured derby. Cascani, an elegant bay Holsteiner gelding, was originally a 2-star event horse who has transitioned to a successful second career as a show hunter.
The $1,500 Mini Morris Derby was won by Orion’s Diamond Ace, owned and ridden by Sarah Flannery. “Ace” is truly a “jack of all trades” with a long career in pony hunters, pony jumpers and equitation.
The course was built with brush donated by Spiegel Farm, and hand cut natural rails to simulate an old-style field hunter course. Down to Earth Garden Center graciously loaned a truck load of lush plants to decorate the course as well. Photographer Liz Crawley captured the riders and winners.
Winners received neck sash ribbons donated and presented by Christie Heuman; medallions donated by Lewis Pack of the Harmon Classics LLC; and engraved silver platters donated by The FarmHouse. A traditional victory gallop of the winners closed the day of competition.
“Despite the weather a good time was had by all,” Milon says, “the TR&HC looks forward to hosting the event again next year!”
Horse Country Quarterly
TR&HC announces publication of its inaugural Horse Country Quarterly which will document happenings in and around Tryon horse country in photos and stories. To read the first issue as an E-magazine, please click here.
Drew Brannon
It is with great sorrow that the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club announces the unexpected passing of Andrew Brannon. Drew, a past TR&HC president, was a joy to all that knew him, and a huge contributor to the Tryon community. He was kind, gentle and encouraging to everyone he met. Our deepest sympathies go out to all of his family and friends.
Drew, while not a rider himself, was part of a family that has a long equestrian tradition in Tryon. He was actually a third generation president of TRHC following both his father and grandfather as past presidents, and led the Club for two years. He loved dogs and led the running of our Any and All Dog Show for many years. Also, as a past president of the Club, Drew had recently taken on a special project to investigate establishment of an endowment program for the Club and his absence will be particularly missed on that effort. His tragic passing will leave a giant hole in the fabric of the Tryon community.
TR&HC has a new home!
TR&HC announces completion of its move to its new home office in the heart of Tryon at 112 North Trade Street, Suite 12. If you are in the vicinity, please stop by and say hello. We are still working out staffing hours so check back with us soon!