Lakewood Stables
Built in 1993, Lakewood Stables was a small 6 stall barn built mainly for Martha's horses and a few boarders. A lifelong equestrian, Martha spent her childhood with a herd of 40 Shetland ponies owned by her parents. Hours and hours of handling, riding, and just observing the ponies has created a deep love for and understanding of horses.
When Daryl and Martha first opened Lakewood Stables she had her young Holsteiner gelding, Woody, who was still too young to ride, and also took in two or three project horses at a time. Usually these were Thoroughbreds retired from the racetrack that needed a new career. Carefully selecting ones with quality movement and a nice temperament, she found competitive homes for almost 30 horses in the Hunter ring, Dressage, and eventing circles. During this time she also began a serious lesson program, with as many as 40 students taking weekly lessons.
As Woody grew and matured into a lovely Dressage horse, her focus became more centered on Dressage and, specifically, warmbloods. Using two of her Thoroughbred mares, Martha had a breeding program for 8 years, and is very pleased with the quality of foals she has raised. Several years ago she added two warmblood mares to the breeding program with promising results. Almost exclusively breeding the mares to R. Johnson, the foals have become outstanding athletes, with temperaments that make training them a pleasure. She has sold several but looks forward to keeping one or two for her own competitive riding. (For more on R. Johnson please go to Colourfields).
The connection through R. Johnson to Babsi Neidhardt-Clark at Colourfields led to an opportunity for Martha to further her Dressage education and at the same time to focus more on her own competitive career. Forming a partnership with Babsi several years ago was a natural outgrowth of the two farms who found they shared an appreciation for quality horses, a drive to positively impact the competition world by creating harmonious partnerships between the horse and rider, and a passion for giving back to the animals that have so touched their lives. It also led to the purchase of Riabell, one of the Danish horses that Sycamore has imported, and Martha's current FEI partner. A lovely mare by Blue Hors Romancier, Slinky, as she is affectionately named, has allowed Woody his dignified retirement to chief babysitter and overseer of Lakewood Stables, while she graciously shares the show ring with Martha. Sadly, in the Spring of 2011 Woody became ill and had to be euthanized.
Lessons
Currently accepting students, but on a more limited basis due to her schedule, Martha still enjoys sharing her knowledge of horses with all types of riders, from the serious competitor to the trail rider wanting a better understanding of their backyard pet. Over the years Lakewood has expanded to a 12 stall barn, and is currently enjoying the completion of the new indoor arena.
A Karate instructor for 13 years, Martha's unique training style blends her ability to understand the student's physical limitations, and any potential fears the rider may have and still encourage them to reach for their dreams. This ability, coupled with a lifetime of experience sensing the temperament and innate talent of the horse have led to many comfortable and successful riding careers.
Equine Appraisals
Several years ago Martha made the natural progression to get her certification as a Equine Appraiser. If you have a need for an Appraisal, whether it is for insurance purposes, a tax credit, sale purposes, or other reasons, please call or write for an estimate. If you are looking for an agressive watchdog, you'll need to look elsewhere... ;)