Endurance riding tests the horse’s ability to cover long distances over varying terrain, altitude, and weather. It not only tests the horse’s fitness and stamina, but the connection and trust between horse and rider. Meg Sleeper met Belesema Sapphire, a chestnut Arabian mare, when the horse’s previous owner could no longer keep her. After just a few months of training and getting to know the sensitive mare, Meg discovered she was talented, but very herd-bound and lacked confidence in herself and rider, which caused her to act out.

Meg decided that it would be best for Sapphire if she was only ridden by one person so she could learn to trust her rider. The pair went to work and trained by themselves on the trails, rarely joining group rides. These many hours spent alone helped fortify trust between Sapphire and Meg and they became a true team. Sapphire, now 13-years-old, is a force to be reckoned with on the trails, and her accomplishments include 1st place for the AERC National 100 Mile Award and National Best Condition Award and she was the 2023 Arabian Horse Association 100 Mile Award recipient.

Megs sums up what working with Sapphire means to her best by saying, “I feel honored that she considers me worthy… when you are both enjoying – indeed loving – the experience, there is nothing you can’t accomplish.” Sapphire and Meg’s trust and bond with each other is truly something to celebrate! BreyerFest attendees will be able to meet this long-distance champion this summer at BreyerFest!

Freestyle reining combines the precision and technicality of reining maneuvers with music and choreography. To harmoniously pull off all aspects of a great freestyle it takes a special connection between horse and rider. One horse who has made big waves in the world of freestyle reining is the 2008 buckskin gelding, Game Day Surprise.

Sharee Schwartzenberger met Eli, as he is known in the barn, as a 2-year-old and knew there was something special about him. He was athletic, learned quickly, and was very levelheaded, which are all qualities Sharee looks for in her freestyle horses. After some early competitions, the two clicked and became a force to be reckoned with in the ring. Some of Eli’s many accomplishments include being the top freestyle earner in the world, winning the 2020 25th Anniversary Ram Invitational Freestyle Championship as well as being reserve champion in 2014, 2015, 2018, and 2024. Eli was born to be in the spotlight; he knows when it's game time and lets his personality shine.

On top of having fun costumes, catchy music, and technical maneuvers Sharee and Eli are known for doing almost all their performances bridleless. The pair’s connection is so seamless, spectators have watched their routines only to realize Eli was brideless at the end! Their trust in each other allows this dynamic pair to dance flawlessly and in harmony under the lights. With Eli still performing at 17 years old it is a true testament to their commitment to each other and is something to be celebrated! BreyerFest attendees can meet this talented dancing duo at BreyerFest!