This Is The Place To Introduce Yourself

[Redbud Ranch]

Old or New We want to Hear From YOU!

[Elaine Lindelef]

Hi, I am Elaine, and I have been a fan of Connemaras since I was a small child, probably due to reading too many CW Anderson books. However, growing up in Southern California, we didn't have many around. I remember riding an imported pair that came through my trainer's sales barn when I was 16, and I was very excited about it, but they only stayed a few days. I've always loved ponies in general.

I've been heavily involved in the model horse hobby (Breyer etc), and many of the models I created as an artist were Connemaras.

I became a member of ACPS for a while after graduating from college just to enjoy the Connemara pictures and to have more sculpting references. I had considered looking at halfbreds when I was looking for my first adult horse, but I had trouble finding any to look at in the area. I ended up with an experienced eventer, a TB mare, who has been a terrific schoolmaster and is now living a life of luxury as a solar lawnmower.

When pony shopping for my daughter, I came across Stonybrook Bridey O'Shea. I agonized about calling on her, because I knew in my heart she was too green for my daughter, and I didn't want to waste Lee's time, but I talked myself into the idea that maybe she would suit if I rode her for a year. You know, for the good of the child.

I ended up choosing a small shetland pony for my daughter, but I loved Bridey, and couldn't stop thinking about her OR talking about her, and how much I enjoyed riding her. My family, apparently worn down, finally told me Merry Christmas, go buy the pony already. :-)

It's a lot of fun having competitive goals again.

[Redbud Ranch]

What a terrific story Elaine! :) Best, Lisa M