Shelley Weiss and Neville (PA)
Team #1042: Shelley Weiss and Neville
From: Furlong, Pennsylvania
Ages: 73 & 27
Combined Age: 100
Test: Introductory Level Test B
I started riding at age 15 and found it to be life-changing. It was like finding the secret to happiness. I got my first horse at the age of 17, a five-year-old off-the-track-Thoroughbred who happened to share a birthday with me. I went on to be a member of the first-ever Penn State Equestrian Team. In my late 20s through my early 50s, I showed locally in equitation and hunter classes, as well as in dressage. I also participated in a few hunter paces, competitive trail rides, and an event. I’ve been blessed to own five horses during my life.
At around 66, after losing my last horse, a new chapter started for me when I began riding Neville at a lovely equestrian facility, simply referred to as 809 Farm. Neville is an off-the-track-Thoroughbred who after 6 years of racing went on to become a show hunter/jumper and an eventer. He’s what some might refer to as a “war horse.” He was 20 when I started riding him. His owner no longer lived in the state but wanted him to remain at 809 where he received such great care. I have been privileged to be his person for the last seven years. Neville is a very smart and personable horse whom I adore. We communicate well with each other. I always say that he has me very well trained.
I’d like to thank Kathi Kolbman, owner of 809, and my trainer, Tracy Wagner, for all of their support.
