Tim Pelura and Nelson (PA)
Team #960: Tim Pelura and Nelson
From: Malvern, Pennsylvania
Ages: 71 & 30
Combined Ages: 101
Test: Introductory Level Test C
My wife imported Nelson in 2004 from the Netherlands and competed with him up to Intermediate Levels successfully until 2020, when his age got in the way. She returned to the Netherlands and purchased a new horse. What to do with Nelson?
During those 16+ years of her competition with Nelson, I was his groom. I didn’t ask anything of him, and he only expected an unlimited supply of apples and carrots from me. So, when we brought a new horse into the family, it only made sense for me to take Nelson. He was the best gift I ever received…we were best friends. Since 2020, he and I typically ride five times per week, and as our ages approached Century Club ride qualifications, we thought “hell yes!”
As with any aging horse or rider, we’ve had our difficulties. Me? Back surgery in 2024, which kept me off him for a month. Nelson? High ringbone and a ligament injury in early 2025 cut into our Century Club ride preparation, but we persisted with the help of coaching by my wife and great sports medical care by Dr. Peter Blauner.
Why did I want to do a Century Club ride? It was totally for Nelson, a great competitor who only aims to work, a great mind/body combination, and my best friend. He deserved to have this opportunity. Special thanks to The Dressage Foundation, my wife Donna, Blue Goose Stables (Darcy Miller), and Cindy Canace (show judge) for this wonderful experience for Nelson and me.
