Stephanie Lockhart Part II

This is the conclusion of our interview with Stephanie Lockhart who has worked to preserve both the Choctaw and Baca strain of Colonial Spanish horse. Part I of the interview is found in the previous post.

Q. Why are these horses worth saving?

SL ...from the historical angle, which the general public can relate to, they are living museum pieces. From the horse industry angle, these horses can and will do it all, with smiles on their faces. They are unique in their conformation, character, and abilities. With the population...at such a low number, it could be only a short time before they no longer exist.

Q. It seems that more and more the Colonial Spanish horse is finding an English saddle on his back. How well are the smaller strains of Colonial Spanish Horses suited for dressage, jumping or even three day eventing?

SL Big movement and power come in small packages. I've experienced much success in the dressage ring with my CS horses. ....Morado, at 14.2 has bigger and more elevated movement than many horses which stand 15-16 hands. My daughter has a 14 hand Choctaw gelding that show jumps 3 feet easily, and gallops around a cross country course making the time. ...these horses have that advantage ..because of their conformation and lack of heavy muscling. Their suppleness makes them really handy for jumping, yet their sloping shoulders and short back make for excellent extension and collection for the dressage ring.

Q. Have you found a need to shoe any of the Colonial Spanish Horses with which you have worked?

SL I've never had to shoe any of them. I rode Morado on his first 30 mile competitive trail ride barefoot. We trained barefoot, he vetted out great at the end of the ride, much to the vets surprise. ...everyone I've had has had a good foot. Using Natural Balance trimming keeps them going fine.

Q. What about drawing new riders to Colonial Spanish Horses--what needs to be done to achieve that?

SL Getting our horses out there in the public eye is what will draw new people to the breed. Having the media involved has been the most successful way I've been able to promote the breed. I have also created events which focus on the Colonial Spanish horse and that has done some great things for the horses. Setting an example using good horsemanship skills, presenting a healthy, well cared for horse to the public is really important too. And getting kids involved . They are the future for our horses.

(For more information see www.red-road-farm.com and www.bacahorseconservancy.com )