1/27/26 Mettawa, IL - MHF North's Show Team headed to Ledsges "B" Show as winter tightened it's hold on the nation. Ever grateful for heated indoor arenas, the team brought home top honors all weekend, including: Nicholas Fink & Oliver, Champion Long Stirrup Adult Hunter Sharon Watrous & Altodetto FZ, Champions Limit Adult Hunter AND Equitation Bennett Doran & Gregary, Reserve Champions Beginner Children's Equitation (pictured right) Samantha Wlazlo & Smitten Z, Reserve Champion Beginner Adult Hunters (pictured left) Gianna Belcher & Lollipop, Champion Long Stirrup Children's Equitation Go team!!

1/20/2026, Wellington, Fl - If Week One was defined by power and precision, Week Two unfolded with elegance and grace as MHF’s hunters took center stage. Week 2 Results Jodi Vazquez & Cassini Royale, scored in the 80s in the USHJA 3ft Hunters and setting the tone early in the week. Freddie Vazquez & Fortune R Z continued to bring home the blue ribbons with another clear round in the 1.15m Open Jumpers. With Katie Sonnenstein & Fortune R Z following up that performance with a clear round and blue ribbon in the 1.0m Training Jumpers. Moving back to the hunter ring, Grace Albarron & Nabucco W showcased rhythm and polish in the Low Adult Hunters, posting scores in the 80s and finishing 7th and 8th in a deep competitive class. And Lindsay Streich & Highlighter showed off in the Grand Hunter Ring in the Adult Amateur Hunters 36-54. (Those knees! 😍). We'll take a little break and see you back here for Week 4!

1/11/2026, Wellington, FL - Each winter, the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) draws the sport’s most accomplished riders, elite horses, and premier programs to Wellington, Florida for twelve weeks of top-tier international competition. Known for its depth of talent, electric atmosphere, and career-defining moments, WEF is where seasons are shaped and standards are set. This year, Messenger Hill opened the 2026 circuit with intention and momentum—laying a confident foundation for the weeks ahead. WEF 1 Results Carolyn Lucky & Lucky Friday kicked off their partnership with a successful first outing, putting in consistent rounds and picking up well deserved ribbons in the 2ft Junior/Amateur Hunters. Elodie Watrous came back from college for the weekend, and didn't miss a beat, laying down a solid double clear in the 1.30m Amateur Jumpers with Hero and coming back later in the week for an 8th place finish in the $15,000 NAL 1.35m Amateur Jumper Classic. A sharp, forward ride from Lauren Della Valle & My Lady Carthage earned a well-deserved 3rd place finish in the 1.0m Amateur Jumper 36 & Over and 4th place in the $1,595 1.05m Amateur Jumper Classic (36 & Over). Elodie Watrous & I Mose VLS stepped it up with a smooth, strong ride to take 5th in the $1,500 Adult Amateur Modified Jumper Power and Speed. Stay tuned for WEF 2 next week!

11/16/25, Wellington, FL - We are all (kind of) obsessed with Hero. And for good reason. With our fearless leader, Freddie Vazquez, in the irons, they were definitely the subject of some "Oh, who's that?" at the horse show this week. Here they are, earning 3rd place in the $1,000 CSI 3* Bainbridge Companies 1.40m Power and Speed on Thursday. Then delivering a tidy round in the $62,000 Arthramid CSI 3* Grand Prix Qualifier, earning their place in Sunday’s $120,000 Zycosan CSI 3* Grand Prix. And here they are in the GP on Sunday. 😍 "He always lives up to his name…. Who doesn’t need a Hero as you walk into the loneliest, most intimidating place in the WEF showgrounds, “The International Arena," says Freddie. "He has a way about him where confidence and calmness set in as you trot under the famous International Bridge and pick up the canter to head to that first fence! He’s truly a Super Hero! I'm so grateful to Joyride, always supportive friends, partners, and clients, for opportunities to sit on horses like this."

November 9, 2025, Wellington, FL - Pre-WEF Shows are underway at our beautiful Messenger Hill South location, Nature's Point. These next few shows are a warm up for the real goal of the year, the Winter Equestrian Festival. Horse and rider teams from all over the world will come to Wellington from January - March to decide who gets bragging rights, and who has homework for next year! Highlights of the week: Jodi Vazquez & Lola set the tone for the Florida season with a 1st and 2nd over fences in the USHJA 2’9” Hunters. Katie Sonnenstein & Fortune R Z were fortunate all week with quick rounds and top placings to earn themselves Champion of the 1.0m Junior Jumper division. Absolute perfection for this winning pair as Lauren Della Valle & My Lady Carthago earn top honors and Champion of the 1.0m Amateur Jumper division. Jodi Vazquez & Cassini Royale start the day on a high note, taking home the blue in the Warm-Up Hunters. Lindsay Streich & Highlight were the highlight of the Child/Adult Amateur Hunters, closing out the weekend as Champions of the division.

11/20/25 Mettawa, IL - Parents! You've been asking what brand of hairnet is the best and which spurs your kids really need so here is the whole list! Buy any of these items for the equestrian in your life and they'll be thrilled! HAIRNETS FOR ALL!: These " no knot" hairnets are the easiest to use. And when they inevitably become gross, they won't hurt the bank to just get a new one. Note: They come in all hair colors. Make sure you get the right color! .Crop: Just about any crop that you pick out on Amazon will do. But if you want a recommendation, this Huntley crop in size 18 in is nice. They come in a variety of colors but if you are thinking about taking it to a horse show, choose black. Spurs: If Lindsey keeps putting spurs on your kid to ride Sparky, she'd probably love for your child to come in with a pair of these spurs from Stubben ! They are her favorite spurs because they are effective, but round and soft. Don't forget to get spur straps! Gloves: These show gloves from Kunkle are the best bang for your buck. They are grippy and long-lasting. You can buy them at the link provided, or Lindsey can get them for you locally. Need more ideas? Email us at info@messengerhillfarm.com We LOVE to help people shop! 😉

11/19/25 Mettawa, IL - Our small, but mighty MHF North Show Team came home from the Illinois Hunter Jumper Association Awards Banquet with all the ribbons (and even a massive trophy!). Jayme Hoffberg & Edward Z — Champion Beginner Adult Hunter, Champion Beginner Adult Equitation, recipients of the Informant Perpetual Trophy for the most points in the Beginner Adult division, and Reserve Champion in the Low Hunters. Samantha Walzo & Smitten Z — Reserve Champion Limit Adult Hunter and 3rd in Beginner Adult Equitation. Isabella Pereira & Bull Runs Testify — 3rd in the Beginner Children’s Hunter. Bennett Doran & Thumbelina — 3rd in the Schooling 2ft Hunters and 4th in Limit Children’s Equitation. Congratulations to all!

Messenger Hill Farm: July Highlights & Milestones July was nothing short of extraordinary for the Messenger Hill Farm team, with standout performances, milestone moments, and a Leading Trainer Award to cap it all off. From home turf victories to Grand Prix debuts, our riders and horses have shown exceptional talent, dedication, and sportsmanship. Grand Prix & Jumper Ring Achievements Elodie Watrous & Hero made an unforgettable Grand Prix debut in the $35,000 Douglas Elliman Grand Prix, delivering a clear round over fences with just one time fault to place 10th. They also earned a ribbon in the $20,000 Alliant Private Client Jumper Cup, finishing 9th in a competitive field—a fitting finale before Elodie heads off to college. Lauren Della Valle & My Lady Carthago ended their week at GLEF on a high note, finishing 2nd in the 1.00–1.05m Amateur Jumper Classic and clinching Champion of the division through consistent performances. Freddie Vazquez & NE-President Van Koekshof showcased speed and precision with a clear round in the 1.40m Jumper Power and Speed, setting the tone for a strong weekend. Hunter Ring Victories Sharon Watrous & Greetings continued their winning streak at GLEF with 1st and 2nd over fences, plus an under saddle win, earning Champion in the Intermediate Child/Adult Hunters . Lei Schlitz & Diamant Blue PS closed out the Traverse spring series with Reserve Champion in the Intermediate Child/Adult 2’6” Hunters. A Leading Trainer Honor A special congratulations to our Assistant Head Trainer, Lindsey Oaks , named Leading Trainer  at the Perfecta Farm “B” Show, hosted by Showplace Productions. This accolade is a testament to Lindsey’s commitment to excellence and the outstanding results she helps our riders achieve from start to finish. Perfecta Farm “B” Show Success The MHF North Show Team shined brightly at Ledges: Jayme Hoffberg & Edward Z  — Champion in the Beginner Adult Equitation and Reserve Champion in the Beginner Adult Hunters. Samantha Wlazlo & Smitten Z  — An impressive debut together, taking Reserve Champion in the Limit Adult Hunters. July proved once again that our riders, trainers, and horses are a force to be reckoned with. Here’s to building on this momentum as we head into the next chapter of the show season!

Traverse City, MI 6/20/2025 — The 2025 Traverse City Horse Shows Spring Series kicked off in spectacular fashion, with top riders and horses delivering standout performances during the first week of competition. Celebrating excellence across hunter and jumper rings, the week concluded with several well-earned champion and reserve champion titles for dedicated athletes and their talented equine partners of Messenger Hill Farm. Meg Gehron & Smitten Z Meg Gehron & Smitten Z claimed the Championship title in the USHJA 2’ Hunters. Their harmony in the ring set the tone for a strong season ahead. Katie Sonnenstein & Clinta 8 In the jumper rings, Katie Sonnenstein & Clinta 8 secured the Reserve Championship in the 1.0-1.05m Junior Jumpers, showcasing competitive rounds marked by precision and determination. Lauren Della Valle & My Lady Carthago Lauren Della Valle & My Lady Carthago also impressed in the 1.0-1.05m Amateur Jumpers, finishing the week as Reserve Champions with a mix of speed and style that kept them at the top of the leaderboard. Sharon Watrous & Cassiko Rounding out the honors, Jodi Vazquez & Cassiko earned the Reserve Champion title in the USHJA 2’3” Hunters, highlighting the duo’s quiet sophistication and strong presence over fences. With world-class facilities and an atmosphere designed to bring out the best in horse and rider, the opening week of the TCHS Spring Series set a high bar for the rest of the season. Congratulations to all riders, trainers, and owners on a successful start!

Traverse City, MI 7/4/2025 — Traverse City Horse Shows has quickly become one of North America’s premier show jumping destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Owned and operated by a family with deep generational roots in the equestrian world, the facility reflects a rare level of thoughtfulness and detail that only true horsemen can deliver. For barns like Messenger Hill Farm, that makes all the difference. Every detail at TCHS has been considered from the perspective of a working show barn, because the people running the show are real horsemen! From safety and comfort to aesthetics and functionality, the facility has been designed not just to impress, but to truly support the horses and riders who call it home for the season. The VIP Experience Messenger Hill Farm prides itself on providing a boutique, world-class, concierge experience. TCHS only adds to this with comfortable lounging areas around every ring, thoughtfully placed seating areas throughout the showgrounds, and new jumps in all the arenas year after year, contributing to a beautiful aesthetic and vibe. The arenas and jumps are gorgeous! - PC: Meg Gehron Paddock Rentals That Prioritize Horse Welfare In a show environment where turnout can be hard to find, TCHS makes it possible to maintain a horse’s routine with spacious paddock rentals. It’s a choice that supports both mental and physical wellness. Messenger Hill’s Jodi Vazquez gives us some insight: “Horses are happiest and feel their best when they can depend on their schedule and routines to stay the same. The paddock rentals make the horses’ lives predictable and add to their overall well-being. Just one of many reasons that we come to Traverse City every summer!” Building for the Future Permanent barns are underway, providing a long-term investment in enhanced safety, improved airflow, and year-round durability for both horses and staff.       Details that Matter While much of the showground has been paved for durability, TCHS takes it a step further, laying down mats in any area a horse may cross to prevent horses from slipping and straining. In the rings themselves, the footing is carefully groomed and maintained, assuring that the horses are given the best chances to show off! Expertly groomed arenas next to matted areas for the horses to walk safely. PC: Meg Gehron TCHS installs mats beneath the tents before the horses ever arrive, ensuring a safer, more comfortable foundation from day one. PC: Meg Gehron   For Messenger Hill Farm, the decision to participate in the Traverse City Horse Shows is about more than just competition. It’s about choosing a facility where horse care, client experience, and operational excellence are treated with equal priority. And at TCHS, that is simply the standard. For full schedules, prize lists, ticketing, and live stream options, visit traversecityhorseshows.com . Venue maps, spectator guides, and travel info are available at the same site.

3/25/25 Wellington, FL - MHF consistently turned in standout performances right until the end of WEF, Week 11. Notable appearances were: Fearless leader Freddie Vazquez and NE-President Van Koekshof with a clear round in the $6,000 FEI 4* Dodd Technologies 1.45m and earned a 12th place ribbon finish in the $32,000 FEI 4* Dodd Technologies 1.50m Freddie Vazquez and NE-President Van Koekshof Sharon Watrous & Cassiko with a 2nd place finish in a very competitive Low Adult Amateur Hunter over fences. Katie Sonnenstein & Clinta 8 with a well-deserved 1st place finish in the 1.00m Junior Jumpers and Reserve Champion in the division. Hayden Hero & Midnight Ruby Tuesday with double 4ths in the Small/Medium Children’s Pony Hunters. Lindsey Streich & Highlighter with a 2nd and 3rd place finishes in the Adult Amateur Hunters 36-49

3/18/2025 - Wellington, FL As we enter the final weeks of WEF 2025, Messenger Hill Farm isn't showing signs of winding down. In fact, the jumpers shine this week with Freddie Vazquez & NE-President Van Koekshof putting in STANDOUT performances with a 5th place finish in the $6,000 FEI 4* Bainbridge Companies 1.40m and an 11th place finish in the $32,000 FEI 4* 1.50m Speed. Watch their rounds below! 1.50m speed CSI 4* 1.40m power & speed PLUS Lauren Della Valle & Farmer put in a clear to earn them a 4th place finish in the Low Child/Adult 39 & Under Training Jumper Lauren DellaValle & Farmer And Katie Sonnenstein & Clinta 8 were blazing in the 1.00m Junior Jumpers with a 4th place finish. Katie Sonnenstein & Clinta 8 One more week to go! Stay tuned!