Catherine Jacob and Crosswind Wilden (OH)
Team #889: Catherine Jacob and Crosswind Wilden
From: Okeana, Ohio
Ages: 78 & 24
Combined Age: 102
Test: Introductory Level Test B
A heartwarming dream come true from the Crosswind Wilden Century Club ride. Cathy Jacob, 78, dreamed of riding aside on her own homebred horse in a Century Club ride. Crosswind Wilden, a remarkable 24-year-old, is from Cathy's Thoroughbred mare and a Cleveland Bay stallion. She foaled, raised, and even showed Wilden as a young sport horse at various dressage competitions. Cathy has ridden aside in the hunt field as well as dressage competitions. Over the years, Wilden has proven his versatility and wonderful character, transitioning from the dressage career to becoming an enthusiastic fox hunter and a cherished side saddle mount, admired by many. Cathy and Wilden celebrated their birthdays earlier in May. May 25th, they participated in the Old Stone Memorial Day Dressage Show in Hamilton, OH, where they achieved a winning score of 72.8% in an Introductory Level class. This accomplishment beautifully fulfilled Cathy's desire to ride her homebred aside with the combined age of 102 years young in a Century Club ride and proves dreams do come true. Cathy remarks this special occasion wouldn't have been possible without the support of many individuals. She extends sincere gratitude to Julie at Old Stone Riding Center, Susan owner of Wilden's sire, Fryup Marvel, and Becky who has provided exceptional care for Wilden, and of course, to Wilden himself. This story beautifully highlights that well-cared-for horses can remain active and functional well into their mid-twenties and beyond. A big thank you to TDF for providing this wonderful opportunity to showcase senior citizens and their equine partners.
