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!

2/11/2025—If success is in the details, then preparation is the key to unlocking potential. Don't let her warmness and charm fool you. Katie Wood is always three steps ahead with multiple contingency plans. And she is the heart behind the program at MHF South (which is now open 365 days/year!!). Always ready with a kind word, Katie has a particular talent for bringing out the brightest in her students. She says this is because she strives to be ahead of the game. Katie instructs a student at MHF South (Nature's Point) "I try to get ahead of a problem beforehand. It's much easier to do your homework before the lesson/horse show/whatever than to deal with the aftermath of unpreparedness." We've all seen the direct results of Katie's preparedness. Her students and horses always seem to be in such a tranquil place when they are at work, which is, again, by Katie's design. "This seems so obvious, but we forget that the horse's happiness is crucial. If he's unhappy, he won't want to work with us, and the rider won't get to learn. We've got to work with the horses if we want them to work with us." And work with us, they do! Katie's students are regularly in the ribbons and have a blast at ESP and WEF (which are just a short, 12-minute walk from the farm!). "When I ride with Katie, I always feel uplifted. She gives me great visual examples when I'm working on something new and constantly makes jokes, which helps me relax," says student Carolyn Lucky. And that's not all! Katie isn't just a great teacher; she's an intuitive rider. In fact, our fearless leader, Freddie Vazquez, even trusted his FEI horse, Kirschwasser SCF, AKA Kirby, with Katie all summer last year for a bit of R&R. Freddie Vazquez & Kirschwasser SCF in the CSI 5* at Traverse City. "There are few people on the planet that I trust to oversee care for my personal horses, but Katie is a top-of-the-line trainer. I didn't think twice about it. We consider her a true asset and an amazing addition to our staff," Freddie says. Lucky doesn't even cover it. We are so grateful for Katie! Our year-round program at MHF South wouldn't be possible without her! For more information on programs at Messenger Hill, shoot us an email at info@messengerhillfarm.com or call Lindsey at 859-457-9042. Katie Woods & Kirschwasser SCF "Kirby"

2/11/2025 - Our fearless leader Freddie Vazquez & NE-President Van Koekshof, owned by Joyride Eq, started off our week RIGHT in the $6,000 FEI 2* 1/ST Racing 1.45m this week, securing a 12th place ribbon finish! Freddie Vazquez & NE-President Van Koekshof PC: Sportfot Not to be outdone, newly minted 1.40m pair Elodie Watrous & Furious De Louravi made every second count with a 2nd place finish in the 1.40m Junior Jumper Speed! Elodie Watrous & Furious De Louravi PC: Sportfot Katie Sonnenstein & Clinta 8 put down a very quick and tidy round in the 1.05m Junior Jumper Classic for 2nd place! Katie Sonnenstein & Clinta 8 PC: Meg Gehron Other notables: Katie Sonnenstein & Prost place 2nd in the Children’s Hunter 15-17 U/S and multiple ribbons over fences. Meg Gehron & fan favorite Dazzle White make moves in the jumper ring. Consierge & Elodie Watrous secure a 5th place finish in the Dover Saddlery/USEF Hunt Seat Medal.

2/6/25 Mettawa, IL - MHF announces 2025 Pony Camp Dates! This year, MHF is thrilled to introduce an enchanting new experience for young equestrians: the Beginner Pony Camp! Designed for children aged 7 and up, this camp offers a magical entry into the captivating world of horses. From June 24th to 28th, campers will dive into horse care essentials, mastering proper grooming techniques and basic riding skills. With a blend of hands-on experience and expert instruction, participants will learn from seasoned professionals, including veterinarians and farriers. Whether your child dreams of becoming a champion rider or simply wishes to bond with our beloved four-legged friends, this camp lays the perfect groundwork for their equestrian adventure. Don’t miss out! Learn more and apply for the Beginner Camp here . Following the incredible success of last year’s inaugural Horse Show Camp, we’re excited to bring it back, bigger and better than ever! This year’s camp will take place from June 17th - 20th, culminating in an exciting opportunity to participate in the Showplace Summertime "B" Show in Roscoe, IL, that weekend. Additionally, MHF students can take one of our amazing horses to the show, providing a unique chance to experience horse showing without the long-term commitment of leasing or owning a horse. It’s the perfect opportunity to dip your toes into the thrilling world of horse showing this summer! Ready to saddle up? Learn more and apply for the Horse Show Camp here .

5/1/2024 - Our very own Lindsey Oaks, who holds down the fort at MHF North in Illinois, was featured in Chicago North Shore Moms' "Meet a Mom" Series! Read on to get to know a little more about her and what she does for us here at MHF! Hello friendly faces! It’s that time of the week! We’re back with a new Chicago North Shore Moms spotlight brought to you in part by Mary Gifford of  Gifford Law . This week, we’re shining the spotlight on the lovely brand new mom to six month old Greyson who embodies a unique entrepreneurial spirit specializing as an equine consultant, Lindsey Oaks! As a dynamic and resourceful entrepreneur, Lindsey has turned her love for horses into a thriving business, earning her accolades and respect in a competitive industry, and she holds a special place in her heart for the Mettawa-based Messenger Hill Farm , an equine center for horse lovers of all levels. With an unwavering dedication to both her clients and her beloved equines, she exemplifies innovation and excellence; her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the rewards of following one’s passion. Learn more about Lindsey’s journey with entrepreneurship and the intricacies of the equine world along with a few personal and local favs mixed in. Welcome, Lindsey! Hi Lindsey! Please introduce yourself. Where are you from originally? What city do you live in now? What brought you here? Hi! I’m Lindsey Oaks, an equestrian coach & consultant from South Georgia originally. Our son, Greyson, was born just this December and at five months old is keeping us on our toes! He’s a very relaxed baby but boy does he have opinions! I can’t wait to introduce him to horses when he’s a little older. I moved to the Libertyville area to work for Messenger Hill Farm back in 2018 and I LOVE it here! What are one or two fun facts to know about you? 1. My claim to fame is that I competed at the Olympic level of Three-Day Eventing (a triathlon for horses) on a shoestring budget and grit. Competing at that level was the highlight of my riding career, and yet, did not yield the business results I hoped. I was invited to write about the experience in the book “Overcoming Mediocrity: Empowered Women.” ( Read on Amazon ) 2. I once was featured in the pilot of a reality television series about women in the racehorse industry. The series didn’t move forward in that form, but it was a learning experience to be on that side of the camera!

1/30/2025 - Mettawa, IL While the MHF "A" Show team is earning ribbons down in Wellington, our "B" Show team popped over to Ledges Showplace Winter "B" Show in Roscoe, IL for a little indoor horse showing where MHF's Thumbelina ran away with the limit division and won the classic with Bennett Doran in the irons! Bennett Doran & Thumbelina Our assistant trainer, Lindsey Oaks, picked up the tri-colors in the Low Hunter and the Open Hunter Classic with MHF graduate Edward Z, owned by Jayme Hoffberg. Lindsey Oaks & Edward Z Plus, we got to see these MHF grads pick up of their own! Edward Z & Jayme Hoffberg Katie Makowiecki & Alto Detto Z Isabella Pereira & Testify

1/28/25 - Wellington, FL It's notable to collect ribbons at the Winter Equestrian Festival anytime, but quite extraordinary to continue the trend week to week. But that's just what happened last week (week 2). Lindsay Streich & Highlighter had a fairy tale weekend, taking home two 1sts, a 2nd and a 3rd in the Adult Amateur 2’9” Hunters and claiming Champion of the division. An incredible showing for this new partnership. Lindsay Streich & Highlighter Our fearless leader, Freddie Vazquez, & NE-President Van Koekshof (owned by Joyride EQ) put in an impressive round in the $2,500 1.35m Open Jumper to finish 6th out of a big class of over 125 competitors. Freddie Vazquez, & NE-President Van Koekshof (owned by Joyride EQ) Other notable finishes: Lauren Della Valle & Farmer were 2nd in the Low Child/Adult 39 & Under Jumpers Elodie Watrous & I Mose VLS flew to a 4th place finish in the 1.20m Junior Jumpers Katie Sonnenstein & Prost closed out the week with a 1st in the Children 15-17 Hunter U/S and a 2nd over fences Elodie Watrous & Furious De Louravi were clear in the first round to bring home a 7th place finish in the $10,000 NAL 1.35m Junior Jumper Classic

Jodi & Freddie Vazquez | Art Bodega We have been DYING to tell this secret. Jodi and Freddie's amazing journey from love at first sight to building a legacy of excellence made the cover of Art Bodega Magazine! The photo shoot for this piece was held at our farm in Wellington, FL (Nature's Point), on a rainy day back in November, and it has been SO HARD not to spill the beans! We won't keep you! Dive into the article to learn all about the power couple behind Messenger Hill Farm, or download the article by itself below!