Elena Broslovsky and Beacon (CA)
Team #1067: Elena Broslovsky and Beacon
From: Aptos, California
Ages 79 & 25
Combined Age: 104
Test: Training Level Test 1
A Gift Horse, a Village, and Inspiration
I had not ridden a horse in a decade when I met Beacon alone in a field. He was sway backed, his eyes were heavily encrusted, his teeth were long and yellow.
He came to the fence. There was an instant heart connection.
At White Rock Ranch, Lauren, the vet, flushed his eyes and filed his teeth. Melissa showed me ground exercises to raise his back. I did them daily along with other stretches. I started lessons with Joan and Melissa and made lasting friendships with boarders, many of whom were my age. Louise had completed her Century Club ride. I admired the big black and yellow rosette that hung in her tack room. That became my goal over the next year.
“It is now or never,” my friend Lisa encouraged, four days before the show at American Sporthorse, our new barn. I was scheduled for a shoulder replacement, now was the time to seize the day. Anne walked me through a late entry.
The Dressage Foundation was incredibly supportive. They mailed the ribbon and a silver frame, even with my last-minute request.
Lisa braided him and lent me her show jacket.
The support from “The Village” was overwhelming. So thankful to my husband and many friends who came to encourage me. To trainers Anne H. and Anne W. I am filled with gratitude to The Dressage Foundation, my village of friends and supporters, and mostly to my magical Beacon.
Photo by A.J.S.K Photography
