

Beyond the Shine: How WEF 2026 Upgrades Reflect a Deeper Commitment to the Horse
In Wellington, excellence is expected. The Winter Equestrian Festival has long been known not only for world-class sport but also for creating an elevated environment where horses and humans can perform at their best. So, when news of sweeping renovations and expansions hit the community, it was easy for some to assume this was simply the next chapter in WEF’s reputation for premium amenities.
But as work continues across both the main showgrounds and the South Venue, a cl
6 days ago3 min read


It Takes a Village to Build a Champion - and Jaclyn Pepper is Proof
Sometimes the best journeys are the ones that almost don’t happen. For California-based dressage rider Jaclyn Pepper and Limited Edition, that’s precisely the story behind their trip to this year’s Festival of Champions—a story stitched together with grit, heart, and the power of community.
Last year, Jaclyn competed in the Developing Prix St. Georges division, finishing fourth. With no concrete plans to return in 2025, she focused on showing "Ellie" at the Intermediate I le
Aug 25, 20253 min read


Shannon Lilley is just out there having fun.
Everyone sitting in the Dixon Oval grandstand watching the $50,000 Arena Eventing class was smiling as Shannon Lilley galloped around the arena to a second-place finish. Her joy was palpable!
Jun 9, 20254 min read


Rapid-Fire: 20 Questions with JJ Torano
JJ Torano, the youngest rider to ever win the USEF Hunter Seat Medal Final just won the WEC Equitation Cup! Here are 20 Questions with JJ...
Mar 27, 20254 min read


Haylie and Oliver Rolfe: It Runs in the Family
When Haylie Jayne (now Haylie Rolfe) rode HiDeHo to victory in the $5000 Littlewood Mini Prix back in 2000, she never could have known...
Feb 26, 20254 min read


From Show Rings to Stick Horses: The Community-Building Magic of Horse Spot
“Wait, wait, I want to tell you about how we are providing the platform for hobby horse competitions too!”
Huh? I had called Micheal...
Jan 6, 20253 min read


Want some good news? Come on in...
Equine news this year has been disappointing. (Yes, yes you in the back. There have been good things too.) From bad training caught....
Jan 6, 20252 min read




