Team #513 Susan Reinecke and Piper’s Spencer

Photo provided by Leslie Anderson

Team #513: Susan Reinecke and Piper's Spencer
Ages: 80 & 22
Combined Age: 102

I have ridden, off and on, (pardon the pun), for most of my life. It all began when I was five years old, riding an old draft horse around a field while my grandfather and his farmer friend "old Jim" enjoyed their adult beverages. From there, I segued into pony rides, hunters, western pleasure, trail, gymkhana, and at last, dressage! 

When I met Lilo Fore at a clinic in Petaluma, CA, it was a real eye-opener for me. I was intrigued, challenged, and hooked. An exciting teacher, Lilo makes one see and feel the possibilities and potential in even the most unlikely of horses (some of mine were in that category).

Many years passed, I continued to ride with Lilo as much as possible with time out for children, health, and life in general.  Life as we knew it was greatly disrupted by losing our entire farm and small boarding facility in the Kincaid fire of 2019. My husband and I reeled from that, at 78 we had lost our zest for surprises. However, with the help of many friends, we are slowly rebuilding our farm and our lives.

The fire was a major setback for my riding, but on my 80th birthday, friends began to urge me to do a Century Club ride. My first thought was "No way! - I haven’t ridden much in the last two years, have not shown in ten years, and NEVER shown on my current horse." Registered as "Spencer" aka "Grande," a large chestnut 22-year-old, he is that ever-popular mix of Thoroughbred, Percheron, and Quarter Horse. He is the quintessential "steady Freddie" that is perfect for someone who has lost a bit of the spring in their mental and physical elastic. 

After much encouragement, I thought "if not now, WHEN?" and entered. Friends rallied with funds, clothes, and mental support. Grande and I survived what I think was a conservative and, hopefully, respectable Third Level test and had a lovely day. I received my ribbons and award complete with a champagne gala hosted by Tracy Underwood. Grande received a huge volume of cookies.

Many thanks to The Dressage Foundation for the opportunity to "get back on the horse" and have a wonderful day. 

My advice to other riders? If you want to do a Century club ride - plan ahead - it is not easy to find a 50-year-old horse!

Susan and Grande completed Third Level, Test 1, on August 22, 2021, to join the Century Club. 

Photo provided by Leslie Anderson