#tsgequestrian

The iconic Menlo Charity Horse Show is known for making memories and in wrapping up it’s 46th year, those memories are multi-generational. As one of the finest equestrian events in the United States, it has established not only a strong tradition of providing outstanding equine competition, but also one of philanthropy through it’s fund-raising efforts for numerous charities, including Planned Parenthood, Amigos De Las Americas, and Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Menlo’s current charitable partner, the Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, is the premier resource for individuals with vision loss in San Mateo, Santa Clara, San Benito and Santa Cruz Counties, helping clients reach their highest potential through programs that promote independence and improve quality of life. Over the past two decades, Menlo has raised over six million dollars for the Vista Center.

Catherine Harvey (of Rhys Vineyards) is a Co-Chair for MCHS and perhaps says it best, “There is truly is nothing like it (Menlo), the venue (a private club in the middle of a residential neighborhood), the sponsors, the committee…..what show do you go to where your prizes are from ELLA, Stephen Silver, Tiffany & Co, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Shreve & Co? If you want an intimate, boutique show, with fabulous food, fabulous vendors and amenities, this is it. It is really the whole package.”

And all for a great cause. Hope to see you there next year - mark your calendars! MCHS 2017 will be held from August 8th-13th.  

We all love leadline and look forward to our dose of pint-sized cuteness overload at every major show. The leadline class at the Menlo Charity Horse Show is no different in that regard and is a favorite for many as the next generation, clad in mini-me riding outfits, steps into the competition ring aboard their trusty steeds. This year’s class was was underwritten by Don DeFranco in honor of his father, V. James DeFranco M.D.

More photos of the leadline class, as well as other show highlights, can be found on the MCHS Facebook Page.

I know you’ve been in this situation: you’re headed out for a romantic long-weekend getaway with the man (or woman) of your dreams, and you’re driving the roadster, which has enough packing room in that tiny trunk for a mini-cooler stocked to the rim with yummy food and drink and one bag. Maybe you can squeeze the umbrella in the far back of the trunk. Maybe.

The plans are to sleep late, peruse the local restaurant scene, stroll along the shore of the lake, take a dip if the water is warm enough, do a little winery hopping, and then wrap up the weekend at the local polo club and enjoy a picnic field-side. Going through your closet and selecting your wardrobe, you realize that the only bag you have that can tote all your weekend essentials (change of shoes included), is easy to carry, will fit in the trunk, and is sensibly chic enough to go from restaurant to shore to polo field is your Stick & Ball Wellington Weekender bag.

You love that it is so versatile, timelessly classic, and goes with everything (including your man, if he happens to be carrying it for you).

You’ll also love the buttery-soft leather and suede lining, the brass hardware accents, that it’s vegetable tanned (appeals to your environmental sensibility and love of traditional craftsmanship), and that it’s made right here in the good ‘ol U.S. of A. You do, after all, support locally made goods and businesses as much as possible. And you take pride knowing that the company you purchased the bag from also holds social responsibility as a core value. You know this will be a weekend to remember. (Okay, so maybe you haven’t been in this situation - yet. Mark my words: you will be. Oh yes, you will be.)

Welcome to Stick & Ball’s latest luxurious leather collection. The entire line is hand-crafted in the U.S.A. of fine, vegetable-tanned leather, sourced from the best tanneries in Italy that use the highest quality tanning and environmental standards, which ties directly into the company’s principles.    

Did you know that vegetable tanning is an old-world, traditional craft process that European tanneries have handed down from father to son for well over 200 years? Vegetable tanning today utilizes both old-time recipes and state of the art technology. The process happens slowly in wooden drums, while respecting the surrounding environment using natural tannins found in plant species of barks, branches, leaves and even fruits. Vegetable tanning is the true “chromium-free” tanning method and does not utilize harmful chemicals. Each piece, therefore, develops its own patina with the passage of time. The transformation from raw hides into tanned leather is really remarkable - creating a beautiful and totally natural, traditional, and environmentally friendly product that, with quality care, will last a lifetime.

Other key pieces of the 2016 collection include: original hand woven and knitted baby alpaca ponchos, equestrian inspired, jewelry, classic, hand-sewn, alpaca blankets, horse and geometric embroidered socks and silk screened t-shirts. The entire collection is available online as well as in select stores.

For more information about Stick & Ball, or to follow along, go to: Website \\ Pinterest \\  Instagram \\ Facebook \\ Twitter

Images of the word “festival” probably bring to mind brightly colored tents, cotton candy, Ferris wheels and music. While colored tents are part of this festival, the Vermont Summer Festival (VSF) is actually all about the horse – hunters and jumpers to be exact – and it is one of THE top venues and competitions in the east. For six weeks every summer, the best in four-legs and two from around the country and Canada descend upon the picturesque Manchester, Vermont region to ride under bluebird skies amidst the mountains of green that give Vermont it’s state name. And all for the opportunity to win some green of their own. The Festival offers more than $750,000 in prize money.

Photo: Andrew Ryback, of Andrew Ryback Photography, the official photographer for the Vermont Summer Festival.

For over 20 years, VSF has been bringing some of the best in the hunter/jumper ring to the historic Harold Beebe Farm in East Dorset, Vermont and this year will continue that tradition with some exciting competition. The competition started on Tuesday, July 5th with the first in the “Equitation Tuesday” classes, and will continue until August 16th. Each week features much to see and do – both in the ring and out. From exhibitor parties, to fly-fishing, hiking, and swimming, to shopping luxury brands at the outlets, perusing the many art galleries, playing a round of golf, or trying your hand at falconry, both the Festival and the region offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the magic of a Vermont summer.

Who, What, Where and When Never been to a horse show? Curious what all the fuss is about? This is a really wonderful family outing for a day and a great introduction to the show-jumping and equestrian world. Or maybe you are a seasoned spectator and fancy a relaxed day, with good food and drink and great friends, sitting on a blanket on the berm, enjoying those bluebird skies, soaking up the warm sun and watching the action unfold (I know I do!). Regardless of your preference, the Vermont Summer Festival welcomes all spectators to the show grounds to watch the horses and athletes, shop the onsite boutiques, or plan to have lunch and a drink.

Dates: July 6th to August 14th, 2016 Hours: Wednesdays through Sundays - 8:00 am to approximately 4:00 pm

Admission Cost:

$6 for Adults and $3 for Children, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday.

$9 for Adults and $5 for Children, Grand Prix Saturday and Sunday.

100% of the gate receipts benefit the following Manchester area non-profit organizations: Manchester Community Library and the Dorset Equine Rescue

Highlights for the 2016 Show:

The MDO-sponsored $10,000 Open Welcome Stake every Thursday; usually starts sometime between 11 am and 1 pm. Come early and stay for awhile.

The $5,000 Hunter Derby ($15,000 during week 6) on Thursday afternoons, usually starts sometime between 3 pm and 5 pm.

The $30,000 Grand Prix on Saturdays at 1:00 pm.

The Grand Finale of the Vermont Summer Festival  - $50,000 Grand Prix on Saturday August 13, 2016 at 1:00 pm

The Vermont Summer Festival is a proud member event of the Show Jumping Hall Of Fame, the Marshall & Sterling League, and the North American League (NAL). 

Inspired by the 2016 Summer Olympics the 46th Menlo Charity Horse Show invites attendees on a fantastic journey to the vivacious Rio de Janeiro. The charm of the Menlo Circus Club and the sensational energy and color of Brazil are blended to bring the “Road to Rio” alive in show rings August 9th-14th from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily at 190 Park Lane in Atherton, California.

The prestigious Menlo Charity Horse Show has come a long way since its conception. Originating in 1970 as a one-day unranked show featuring approximately forty riders; it would be difficult to imagine those humble roots today. One area that has remained steadfast is the organization and dedication, mainly by volunteers, to produce an unforgettable experience year-after-year. In fact, some of the handful of women who launched this show are still active participants today as it continues to grow in popularity while still remaining true to its Peninsula roots.

Founder, Betsy Glikbarg reflects, “...even in those initial days, when we doubted if we would be able to break even financially, we were able to (thanks to the generosity of the community) raise funds for the non-profit agencies that benefited from our early efforts.”

The Menlo Charity Horse Show has evolved into a United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) “AA” rated event with a steering committee of over one hundred volunteers and participants. For six days, Menlo becomes the competition grounds for five hundred of the most accomplished and notable names on the U.S. equestrian show circuit, while simultaneously raising over 6 million dollars for Vista Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired.

“Our horse show is one of the finest…” adds Glikbarg, “It is unique in that its origin and legacy is one of philanthropy, encompassing both the elements of showmanship and giving back to the community.”

Menlo features all-day action Tuesday through Sunday with exceptional hunter and jumper competition in three separate arenas at the historic facility. The gorgeous clubhouse is open to the public and features an outdoor patio and front-row seating to the jumper ring on the polo field. Vendor row, neighboring the clubhouse, includes forty vendors selling clothing, jewelry, art, home and garden, and stable goods not found anywhere else. Food and beverages from local Menlo Park favorites are available on site as well.

On Tuesday and Wednesday young future equestrian stars go head-to-head in pony classes and close the excitement with “Pony Palooza” offering special treats and entertainment for the whole family. On Tuesday evening tradition continues with the exhibitors spaghetti dinner with live music. And Wednesday night brings the Larry Mayfield Horse and Hound class.

The weekend’s must-see events include Saturday evening’s $40,000 Grand Prix sponsored by Bentley San Francisco and Bentley Los Gatos and Thursday evening’s $20,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby presented by Dr. Daryl K Hoffman of Atherton.

On Friday, riding breeches are traded for the evening following the $10,000 Ryman Speed Jumping Class at the Gala dinner underwritten by Stephen Silver. The “Road to Rio” will be brought to life with ornate décor and lavish garments. Mr. Silver’s support, donations and gifts, as a longtime friend and Grand Prix Level sponsor, are highly valued and appreciated, making the Gala a highlight of Menlo’s social calendar.

The Gala evening will include a live auction where the coveted item is a painting by 2016 official artist Rick Timmons. “Cloud Jumper” is valued at $6,400 and is just one of the unique works in his collection that has been featured in numerous national publications.

Tickets for the Gala dinner are $250.00 each and available online. Raffle tickets are also available the week of the show.

The Menlo Charity Horse Show was recognized as a Top Ten Horse Show of 2015 by the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame and provides exceptional family entertainment as it closes out summer on the Peninsula with the excitement, beauty, and grace of the equestrian world in a stunning environment. There is ample parking with complimentary shuttle service to and from the venue. Tax-deductible tickets, available at the Elena Avenue entry gate, are $10.00 per day, or $35 for a 6-day pass. Children under 12 and adults over 65 are admitted free.

The Menlo Charity Horse Show, a 501(C)(3) organization recognized as a USEF Heritage Competition, supports the Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired by producing a premiere equestrian event while educating the community on the issues of the visually impaired.

Menlo Charity Horse Show | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

TSG Equestrian is proud to be a media partner for the Menlo Charity Horse Show.

The Menlo Charity Horse Show (MCHS) welcomes a new addition to their management team. Phil J. DeVita Jr. will be joining MCHS in the newly created role of Technical Coordinator. As a second generation horseman and following in his father’s footsteps, DeVita's lifelong involvement with the horse industry provides him with the perfect mix of skills and knowledge for this new role with MCHS.

Since the mid-1970s, DeVita has been involved with equestrian sport and comes to the Menlo Charity Horse Show (MCHS) with a long and successful resume. In 1995, after years of training and competing horses, DeVita transitioned into the world of show officiating. This resulted in DeVita becoming a full-time R Judge, R Course Designer, and Horse Show Manager.

He has been involved in many top-level events including designing the courses for the 2000 and 2002 ASPCA Maclay Finals at Madison Square Garden, as well as numerous other top-rated horse shows, including the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), the Devon Horse Show and Kentucky Horse Shows, LLC.

His experience in charity show management includes the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, the American Royal Horse Show, the Germantown Charity Horse Show, Trader's Point Charity Horse Show, and Franktown Meadows.

The 2016 MCHS event will take place August 9th through August 14th at the Menlo Circus Club, 190 Park Lane in Atherton. Over 500 horses and riders are expected to compete in three beautiful arenas, two of which are on the grass of the polo field.  

Once again the event will benefit Vista Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired, which serves thousands of clients in San Mateo, Santa Cruz, San Benito and Santa Clara Counties.  Over the past 5 years, the show has raised more than $1.8 million for the Center. 

Two California-based designers (and both personal favorites of mine), Callidae and Jenni Kayne, have combined their collective super-woman design powers to benefit the Sullivan Canyon Preservation Association, which offers an oasis to nature and equestrian enthusiasts amidst LA’s sprawling urban life. I sat down with Jenni to find out a bit more about the inspiration behind her brand and also, the connection to and the collaboration with, TSGE member, Callidae.

Below: Designer, Jenni Kayne.

MS: For some of our readers that perhaps are not familiar with your collection, can you tell us a little bit about your stores, your designs and the inspiration behind them?

JK: I started my apparel and footwear line, Jenni Kayne, when I was 19 years old. After I had kids and matured a little bit, my passions evolved and I started my lifestyle publication, Rip & Tan, to have a creative outlet for all of my other interests: wellness, cooking, interiors, etc. I currently have three stores in California and we are opening two more this summer in Newport Beach and Palo Alto. We also just opened our first-ever pop-up store in Southampton! For the brand and blog, I’m inspired by travel, time spent with my family, and the creative community around me. I love to support other local, like-minded businesses and truly believe everyone is bringing something unique to the table. MS: How did the collaboration for an event between Callidae and Jenni Kayne come about?  

JK: I love riding and I was so excited to discover Callidae about a year ago. Their clothes are beautiful and made with such high-quality. I really wanted to do something to support them and a trunk show at my Brentwood store felt like the perfect fit! I ride in their clothes every day…their breeches are my favorite!

MS: Mine, too! I love the feel of the fabric and how they hug the body in all the right places, plus the understated and timeless details that one doesn’t find on other breeches, like the leather accents and colorful binding on the ankles. I find myself easily going from the barn to running errands in them without feeling out of place. I just pair them with flats and add a scarf and it’s instant classic chic. On that note, in your opinion, how does Callidae’s design aesthetic compliment your aesthetic?

JK: It’s clean and simple and timeless. The quality construction and wearability really complements my brand’s very well.

MS: Agreed. Your collection is also filled with high-quality and what I would call, easy-peasy-no-fuss outfits and wardrobe classics allowing the woman-on-the-go, such as myself, to look put together whether I’m heading out to meet my friends at lunch, or hitting up the farmer’s market or running errands. That’s also what I love about Callidae’s collection - I know I can go from riding to post-ride activities effortlessly. You mentioned you love riding and you also grew up with horses, correct? How have horses and the equestrian lifestyle influenced you over the years (as a designer, mother, person, sister…etc.)?

JK: For me, being around horses has always been very meditative. It forces you to be one with nature and in the moment as you’re only thinking about them when you’re riding. I think growing up riding instilled a sense of responsibility in me at a young age. You learn how to care and love for an animal and foster serious dedication to their well-being. I also grew up riding with my mom, so it has been really special to share this tradition with my daughter, Ripley.

MS: Some major life-lessons there that I think many of us - equestrians or not - can relate to. I can imagine you are quite busy balancing work and family: are horses part of your daily life at all? Are you able to ride often?

JK: Yes! I ride at least 5 days a week either by myself or with Ripley. MS: That’s really wonderful to hear that you are still riding and sharing that passion with your daughter. Where do you ride? At the Sullivan Canyon Preservation Association riding center? Is this why were they chosen as the charity for this event?

JK: Yes, since I started riding again with Ripley, we’ve been riding at Sullivan Canyon. I love what they contribute to the community, and it’s a beautiful place to ride. 

Below: Jenni with daughter, Ripley, out for a ride at Sullivan Canyon Preservation Association.

Discerning fashionistas (equestrian-minded or not) can stop on by Jenni Kayne’s Brentwood store this week, until June 7th, to shop the Callidae Collection, where 10% of proceeds will go to the Sullivan County Preservation Association.

Above: Audi’s Marc Ganzi and KIG’s Pelon Escapite compete for possession of the ball. Photo by Bob Lubash.

This coming Sunday, June 5th, the Greenwich Polo Club (GPC) will kick off its 35th season of high-goal polo with the first sanctioned match of the United States Polo Association – the Monty Waterbury Cup. Teams competing in the cup include GPC founder Peter Brant’s White Birch team, as well as the Airstream, Postage Stamp Farm and Goose Creek teams.

WHO TO WATCH From those teams, keep an eye on Annabelle Gundlach (Postage Stamp Farm) and Maureen Brennan (Goose Creek). While they may not be as well known (yet) as that other guy (polo player and face of Ralph Lauren, Nacho Figueras.), both are both incredibly talented female players and also Patrons of their teams.

Above: Annabelle Grundlach recently at Greenwich Polo Club. Photo by Alex Pacheco.

Annabelle is fairly new to the sport, playing for a couple of years, but has an obvious talent and infectious love of the game. She is also an accomplished show jumper. Maureen, on the other hand, has been a fixture in women’s polo for some time as a team owner, player and breeder of top polo ponies.  Both are sure to be front and center, showing us all how technically and solidly women play the game.

In polo, amateurs and professionals (and men and women) regularly play together and against each other. An amateur player that puts together a team with one or more polo professional players is called a Patron.

Nacho fans will also have the opportunity to meet Mr. Figueras during pre-game festivities. He’ll be signing copies of the first book in the romantic novel series The Polo Season, from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. If you left your copy of High Season at home, they will be available for purchase onsite at the Greenwich Polo Club from Diane’s Books of Greenwich.

Above: Stick & Ball’s Ombre Stripe Woven Poncho. Photo courtesy of Stick & Ball.

POLO STYLE But what to wear? When I think of the sport of polo and what polo matches are like, I automatically think of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, where her character, Vivian, wears a very lovely, but traditional dress with hat and gloves and it’s all about who’s seen and who’s not. The truth is, a majority of polo games seem to be fairly casual, family-oriented events, with a mix of styles with one rule: get dressed (no pajamas!). To find out what works, what doesn’t and how to create a style that would be suitable to go from tailgaiting to VIP and into evening, I went right to our TSGE source, Elizabeth Goodwin Welborn, owner of Stick & Ball, for her suggestions.

"What to wear to polo is, many times, a perplexing task for guests. Polo is played throughout the world and smart-chic with an international flare is lately the constant. For women, this can range from a linen dress to a gorgeous embroidered tunic or kaftan, to beautiful denim pieces paired with a South American inspired poncho, like our hand woven pieces. If there is a charity component, many times hat contests set the stage for dressier, cocktail-attire combinations. For men, the style also ranges depending on whether attendance will be as a tailgate or in the VIP tents. Linen shorts or pants are smart choices for hot days and fun socks and ties are always a great accessory for guys wanting to make a style statement.”  

 Smart-chic with an International Flare is Lately the Constant

Basically, once cannot be overdressed. Aim to be fashionable, but also comfortable. Wearing pieces that are easy to transition from day to evening (think layers) are a must, as the fun lasts for many hours, from pre-game festivities to the start of the match to the trophy presentation. And don’t be afraid to be playful with your accessories. Elizabeth recommends, “incorporating unique, equestrian inspired accessories such as belts, scarves/wraps and jewelry adds sophistication and your personal style to your outfit.”  Another style tip: since polo is an event on the grass and outdoors, leave the stiletto heels at home!

Above: Stick & Ball’s Alzaga designed Inca Symbol Bronze Cuff and Inca Belt with Coral Stitch. Photo courtesy of Stick & Ball.

Be sure to swing by Stick & Ball’s pop-up store on Sunday to shop their fabulous line of polo-inspired apparel and accessories, say hi to Elizabeth, and get her suggestions for your current and future polo style needs.

THE VENUE Though the focus is always on the game, Greenwich Polo Club continues to elevate the polo experience to make every match an event to remember. Whether fans choose to picnic on the sidelines or go the VIP route by purchasing grandstand boxes or private cabanas, there are plenty of options to delight even the most discerning guests.

Above: A beautiful day to sit in the grandstands. Photo by Chichi Ubina.

Take a moment to peruse and experience the food trucks offering delicacies from Caffe Bon, Dough Girls, Follow That Cupcake, and more. Geoffrey Zakarian's restaurant, The National, will have a pop-up bar on the polo grounds serving polo inspired cocktails made with fine liquors, including Beluga Noble Russian Vodka – the official vodka of Greenwich Polo Club. Beluga Noble Russian Vodka will also be hosting tastings for polo fans. Conveniently located nearby, The National will be the official before or after polo destination for brunch and dinner.

Nestled in the beautiful backcountry of Connecticut, Greenwich Polo Club is less than an hour away by train or car from New York City. Greenwich Polo Club is once again partnering with Uber to offer travel deals from New York City, from the Greenwich Train station, or points in between to the club and back.

Polo matches at GPC are open to the public every Sunday from June 5th through July 17th (there’s no match on July 3rd) and later on in the summer on Sundays from August 28th through September 11th. Tickets may be purchased online and range from $40 per car for lawn seating, $60 per car for grandstand seating, $300 for box seats (seats 4) and $500-$600 for VIP private cabanas (seats 8).

Gates open at 1:00 p.m. and matches start at 3:00 p.m. The field address is 1 Hurlingham Drive, Greenwich, CT 06831. Dogs on leashes are allowed.

MORE INFORMATION Established in 1981 by Peter Brant, the Greenwich Polo Club is the venue for high-goal polo in the Northeast. The Club is internationally recognized for its rosters of legendary teams and players. For more information, images, player information and team stats about Greenwich Polo Club, please visit greenwichpoloclub.com