Hometown: Clinton, AR

A few words from Abby:

“I dreamed of being an Equine Scholar since I first discovered the program at Rolex Kentucky. I had wanted to visit Kentucky and attend Rolex for several years, and I was finally able to do so in 2007. I stumbled upon the Equine Scholars booth on the concourse of the trade fair, and fell in love with the program. It was just what I needed – an outlet to learn about and network within the equine industry. Our trip to Rolex Kentucky became an annual family vacation. Every year I returned to the Equine Scholars booth, reigniting my aspiration to be accepted into Georgetown College and the Equine Scholars Program.

I am from Clinton, Arkansas – a small town in the Ozark Mountains in the north central part of the state. I have been around horses my entire life. I was involved in 4-H for many years, and in the EAST Initiative program at Clinton High School where I founded the VBC HERO Ride for Life (a large and successful fundraiser for the American Cancer Society that is geared for equestrians). I grew up riding western, but began riding English about six years ago. I have two horses: Rocky (13 year old Paint) and Jack (3 year old Quarter Horse Appendix). My family owns six other horses (Tennessee Walkers and a Missouri Fox Trotter). I ride for pleasure; I enjoy trail riding, and simply taking care of my horses. I am a big fan of eventing – maybe someday I’ll try competing a little.

I am currently an intern at Equestrian Events, Inc., producer of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event (where I first found the Equine Scholars Program!). I am majoring in Environmental Science, and will pursue veterinary school after I graduate.”

Dr. Bruce also spoke about the value of using chiropractics in conjunction to traditional medicine to prevent and treat common injuries seen in horses.  Live detonations with both a dog and horse showed us how kinesiology and muscle testing is used to help determine the state of the animal and where adjustments need to be made.  We also learned about additional alternative medicine and therapy treatments such as acupuncture and laser therapy.

Thank you Dr. Bruce and Dr. Anita, for allowing us this awesome experience to learn about equine chiropractics!

Carrie Wirth of Phelps Media Group, gave us a wonderful behind-the-scenes  tour which consisted of learning the history of the show, meeting with a top rider and competitor, seeing the exclusive exhibitor’s lounge, Gracie’s Place interior design and art gallery, the press box, and understanding just how much work is involved to produce a show such as the National.

Student volunteers were present throughout all five days of the show and helped with everything from ticket sales to information services.  Each scholar was given an official National Horse Show t-shirt and a pass for the entire length of the show.  The Georgetown Equine Scholars Program would like to thank Phelps Media Group and Alltech for their hospitality and for allowing us to be part of the event!  We look forward to being there in 2013!

A few words from Lexy:

“I chose to pursue my higher education at Georgetown College for many reasons. The biggest reason I chose Georgetown College was for the Equine Scholars Program, that focused my love for horses in an academic light. It taught me about all the equine industry has to offer, and opened up many doors for me. I have been introduced to some of the most respected people in the horse world, and have networked with organizations in ways I didn’t know possible. Aside from the Equine Scholars Program, I have gained more than I have ever dreamed from Georgetown College. On top of an excellent education, I have gained a second family through this school. From Greek life to my professors, everyone at Georgetown College sincerely cares about my well being, education, and my future.”

Lexy is also activly advancing her riding career in eventing.  Go Lexy!

We are so proud of all of our graduates and can’t wait to see where the next chapter in their lives take them!

We learned about the quarantine facilities, young horse shows, breed inspections and more that occur on their farm every year. What an impressive place!

Are you as curious about their name as we were? This is from their website: www.spycoastfarm.com

“Our Name
At one time, our original farm, located on Strong’s Neck in Setauket, NY, was prime fishing and hunting territory for the Setalcott Indians.
During the Revolutionary War, George Washington commissioned the Setauket Spy Ring to operate from the area. It is said that the patriot, Anna Smith Strong, received intelligence from the local tavern owner and then hung her petticoats and handkerchiefs on her laundry line in a predetermined array in order to inform the whale boat captain, Caleb Brewster, in which harbor the Redcoats were located. Their efforts contributed in no small measure to the success of the Patriot troops.
Since that time, the Strong’s Neck area has been known as the Spy Coast. We consider it an honor to be able to name our farm after this significant chapter of our nation’s history.”

From numerous paddocks to 100-acre fields, Waterford-Millford Farm has everything required to offer complete and competent care for all ages of Thoroughbreds. The farms’ yearling division offers a freestyle walker, a major component to preparing horses for the sales.

Mares and foals roam the large, shaded fields in varying-size groups, according to the foals’ ages. The quarantine division is highly respected around the world. Having handled quarantine procedures for many international clients, Waterford-Millford’s staff is entirely familiar with the shipping process, government requirements and health regulations for all countries, as well as the process of maintaining the individual horse in top condition.

Mr. West gave us a wonderful tour and informed Scholars of the various quarantine protocols needed to ship to different countries. We also got to see foals they had on the ground as well as many barns located on the property.

Mick Costello grew up in a horsey family in Anaheim, Calif., where he eventually built courses at places like Pebble Beach (eventing was huge there the 1960s and 70s). He has travelled extensively; having built the Radnor Three-Day in 1986 and 1987, as well as from 1991 to 2001. He built courses at Fair Hill from 1989-1993 and has built for the Rolex Three-Day Event from the fall of 1998 to present day. Mick also designed the Alltech 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games cross-country course (as well as the marathon course).

Ms. D’Angelo, who works for Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, gave our aspiring equine attorneys a true look at equine law — and left them wanting more! Ms. D’Angelo explained the nuts and bolts of law school, what it is like to work for a large law firm and also what it’s like to work in equine law in the Horse Capital of the World. She was engaging and kind and answered a zillion questions — even when we know she’s so busy!

Ms. D’Angelo mentioned she is always willing to have students shadow her as well as answer any questions students might have. We’re so thankful to her for coming, even when she’s so busy!