Phyllis Stien and Aljarafe VII (FL)
Team #1039: Phyllis Stien and Aljarafe VII
From: Ocala, Florida
Ages 79 & 21
Combined Age: 100
Test: Grand Prix Freestyle
“It’s never too late to dream.”
The “dream” began eight years ago when I purchased Aljarafe VII. He was neglected for four years, however, as I looked at the video of his Grand Prix Championship ride in Spain, I marveled at his incredible movements and athletic ability. I dreamed that someday Aljarafe and I could compete at that level. Thus, my journey began.
Horses have always been part of my life, however, I had little formal training. Considering my age when I purchased Aljarafe (71), and my lack of dressage training, the dream of riding Grand Prix was not just a “stretch,” but downright foolish. Nevertheless, I persisted. Wintering in Florida with Alfie, I rode four to five times a week. Progress was slow, but after about five years, I was able to ride a Prix St George test in competition.
When I met Sue Kolstad (S judge, trainer, and competitor), my riding went into overdrive. We both relished the challenge of a Grand Prix ride. Over the next year, the hard work and training proceeded, culminating in my Century Club ride, a Grand Prix Freestyle.
I was thrilled passaging down the center line to “Electric Avenue,” cantering to “Staying Alive,” walking to “Alfie,” a song that asserts the primacy of opening one’s heart, and finally, piaffing and passaging down center line to “CELEBRATE.”
Indeed, we celebrated! With luck, persistence, an open heart, and most importantly, a large supporting cast, I discovered that even when you’re old, dreams can come true.
