Monday, February 29, 2016

Happy Leap Day!

Wishing everyone a happy Leap Day 2016! Here in Maryland we have spring-like temperatures again today which makes it even better. Also don't forget that there are still a few board openings at Southwind for the spring! Our experienced staff all live on the property and help maintain a routine that keeps our horses happy and healthy.  Not only do we have the facilities you need to train your competition horse, there are also miles of trails for conditioning and pleasure.  All types of riding are welcome, as are your own blacksmith and veterinarian.  We have always emphasized a relaxed atmosphere that is essential to every horse’s well-being regardless of discipline.  Our location in Damascus, Montgomery County, MD provides easy access to I-270 and I-70.

Monday, February 22, 2016

Think Spring: Call for new boarders!

After the beautiful "spring-like" weekend we just had, we wanted to remind everyone that there are still a few board openings at Southwind for the spring! Our experienced staff all live on the property and help maintain a routine that keeps our horses happy and healthy.  Not only do we have the facilities you need to train your competition horse, there are also miles of trails for conditioning and pleasure.  All types of riding are welcome, as are your own blacksmith and veterinarian.  We have always emphasized a relaxed atmosphere that is essential to every horse’s well-being regardless of discipline.  Our location in Damascus, Montgomery County, MD provides easy access to I-270 and I-70.

PS- did we mention that we have an indoor arena!?!?
Be sure to check us out and contact owner Sheri Thornley today to set up your appointment!
www.southwindfarminc.com

Monday, February 15, 2016

Northern Light Farm: IEA Team Update!

Good morning!

Today we are sharing a wonderful update from Northern Light Farm's owner/trainer Heather Achen:

IEA Team Northern Light really ended the year with a bang. Last weekend we were consistently strong and tied for first place as a team out of 18 teams! Our team has only five riders and most teams are 12 or more riders, so that is really saying something for this group! 

Cate Lawrence and Izzy Heemskirk qualified for Regionals on the flat that week. 
Both Coltin McBain and Izzy competed on Valentine's day and BOTH qualified for the jumping portion at Regionals!!  Izzy was even pointed out to compete in the next level next year. 
GO TEAM!

We are very proud of our Regional qualifiers as well as all of our team members. We really knocked it out of the park and I cant wait to see how we grow and compete next  year!


Monday, February 8, 2016

Boarder Spotlight Series: Meet Cashell, Serafina and Corrival!

Hello Everyone!

Continuing our 'Boarder Spotlight' Series, today is all about Cashell and her two mares, Serafina and Corrival.  Keep reading below to find out more!

 1.) Can you tell me a little bit about your horses?  
I have 2 mares:  Serafina and Corrival (Riva).  Serafina is a 19-year-old ¾ Thoroughbred ¼ Clydesdale that I started from scratch when she was an un-backed 3-year-old.  She has evented through Training-level and is now a trail horse.  Riva is a 16 year old Oldenburg mare who is just restarting her eventing career after a seven year layoff.  She is also Asante’s (Cody) mom.  We found each other at the perfect time thanks to Carol Herron my good friend and Riva’s breeder.  Riva has helped me to enjoy competing again.

2.) How long have you been at Southwind?  
I have been at Southwind since 2010.

3.) What types of riding/competing do you do (if any)? 
Eventing

4.) What is your favorite part about being at Southwind?  
It is hard to say any one thing.  I would have to say the care.  It is the perfect mix of regimented routine and individual attention.  A close second are the people.  I stayed away from Southwind for a long time even though I live around the corner because I thought it was too big. But in reality, it feels like a small barn, everyone has their own routine, it is rarely crowded and you get the needed individual attention.




Monday, February 1, 2016

Boarder Spotlight Series: Meet Carol and Spike!

Happy Monday!

Today we are continuing our fabulous 'Boarder Spotlight' Series with Carol and her horse Spike!

1. Can you tell me a little bit about your horse? 
Spike is a draft cross and he will be 6 years old this spring. He is a mix of Belgian Draft, Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred. The first thing anyone says when they see him is " Wow, he is so big!" He is presently about 16.2 hands, but will probably grow a little more. Because of his draft looks, he gives the impression of being bigger. He is a real sweetheart with a great brain. He is totally cool doing solo trail rides, jumping or dressage.

2. How long have you been at Southwind? 
I just got Spike last May, but have been at Southwind about 10 years with my previous horses, Cassie and Jamie.

3. What type of riding and competing do you do?
I focus mostly on dressage , but also enjoy low-level jumping and lots of hacks. The mix of activity is good for both me and for Spike. I don't do many competitions, but try to compete a few times a year to gauge progress.

4. What is your favorite part of being at Southwind?
So many things! Southwind is great place to board. First of course is the excellent care . I know my horse is well taken care of, that staff are always on alert for potential problems  and available  to help when and if something should happen.
Southwind is also a wonderful environment and supportive community. The atmosphere is very low key, ( which is great for those of us who don't like high drama) , and there is tremendous support and good will among the boarders.  Spike and I are both very happy at Southwind.
I highly recommend it as a great place for horses and people.