Ask Cari

On a recent trip to Sun Valley I met the famous Brentina and her rider Debbie McDonald at their beautiful stable in Hailey Idaho. The mountains are a gorgeous backdrop to the outside arena. The weather was perfect for riding and it was a treat to see this world class training facility. The proud owner Parry, was a gracious host who says that of the top 40 or so international-quality dressage horses in the world, he’s “got three of ‘em in his barn in Idaho,” referring to Brentina, Donatello, and rising 5-year-old star, Felix. Parry refers to Felix almost as a freak; he is so elastic and athletic. His hind-foot overreach at the walk is almost a full foot, and his overall 5-year-old class score in LA was a whopping 9.5. They think he may be the best one yet.