E2 Show Jumpers Proudly Welcomes European Horses to United States

Wellington, Fla. - Dec. 5, 2018 - Founded by lifelong horsewoman Katherine Gallagher, E2 Show Jumpers focuses on sourcing, developing and selling talented young horses with proven bloodlines throughout Europe and North America. The team at E2 Show Jumpers is thrilled to welcome six horses from their European string to the United States, where they will continue their training under Wolfstone Stables' Schuyler Riley in Wellington, Florida.

Recently, E2 Show Jumpers formed an exciting new sales partnership with Riley, a highly respected international show jumping athlete and one of the most successful riders in American history. The talented professional is looking forward to training, competing and representing E2 Show Jumpers horses for sale. 

The six horses from their European string who have arrived in the U.S. are Iceman de Muze, Quilimbo, Cazador LS, Karina, Arena Z and Little Beach.

Iceman de Muze. Photo by SportFot

Iceman de Muze. Photo by SportFot

Iceman de Muze is a 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood stallion (Erco Van't Roosakker x Teekitiezzy de Muze) who currently competes at the grand prix level. His athleticism combined with his genuine character make him lovely to ride and a solid partner in the ring. Some of his recent highlights include numerous clear rounds and top-ten finishes with Dayro Arroyave in Belgium at the de Kraal International CSI3*, the Sentower Park CSI3* and the 1.45m level at Waregem Horse Week. In September, the pair executed a double-clear performance and another top-ten finish in the final grand prix at the FEI Zangersheide Sires of the World at the FEI/WBFSH World Breeding Jumping Championships for Young Horses.

Quilimbo. Photo by SportFot

Quilimbo. Photo by SportFot

Quilimbo is a 9-year-old Holsteiner stallion (Quidam de Revel x Soda) who is also currently competing at the grand prix level with stellar results. While he was ridden by Dayro Arroyave, Quilimbo competed across Belgium and moved up to the 1.50m ranks at the de Kraal International. The duo had clear rounds at the FEI/WBFSH World Breeding Jumping Championships for Young Horses and won the 1.45m CSI3* at Zilveren Spoor. This horse has all the qualities and more that a competitive rider could want to achieve their goals in the ring.

Cazador LS

Cazador LS

Cazador LS is a 10-year-old stallion (Casall La Silla x Takana LS) who has all the traits necessary to be a potential competitor in the U-25 classes. His lineage includes the famed Dollar Girl, who was ridden by Nick Skelton with much success. Cazador's royal bloodlines have shown through his performances. In 2017, he stepped up to the 1.40m division at the Costa del Sol Equestrian Tour in Mijas, Spain and most recently he produced clear and consistent rounds at the 1.35m CSI4* level throughout Europe. As a young horse, Cazador was extremely successful in the 7-Year-Old Young Jumpers at the Magna Racino Spring Tour in Vienna, Austria.

Karina

Karina

Karina is a 10-year-old Irish mare (Argentinus x Contender) who is a lovely promising mount for the U-25 classes. Her unmatched talent, character and rideability make her a winning machine. In 2017, the bay mare successfully showed in the 1.40m division at the Costa del Sol Equestrian Tour in Mijas, Spain. Most recently, she had clear rounds at the 1.40m CSI4* level.

Karina

Karina

Arena Z is an 11-year-old Zangersheide mare (Amoroso Van De Helle x Werena) who has all the characteristics of a true athlete and winner. This special horse is very easy and is ready to dominate in the Junior/Amateur Jumper ring. She moved up to the 1.40m Jumpers without a rail down during Magna Racino Spring Tour in Vienna, Austria. In 2017, Arena Z successfully campaigned in the 1.30m and 1.40m divisions at the Costa del Sol Equestrian Tour in Mijas, Spain.

Little Beach

Little Beach

Little Beach is a 9-year-old Irish Sport Horse mare (Beach Ball x Elley's Next In Line) who is a winning Junior/Amateur Jumper mount. This horse is fast, brave, careful and fun to ride, which has led her to jump consistent rounds and earn top results all over. Her talent has been evident from the start of her career after she placed second at the 4-Year-Old Championships in Dublin, Ireland. In 2017, Little Beach achieved top ribbons during the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour in Spain. Most recently, she stepped up to the 1.35m height with Dayro Arroyave in Belgium.

Katherine Gallagher is excited to watch these horses' training develop throughout the winter season in Wellington, Florida as they compete at the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) with Riley. 

For more information about these horses or to set up a trial, please contact Schuyler Riley at schuyler@wolfstonestables.com.

E2 Show Jumpers Announces Exciting New Sales Partnership with Schuyler Riley

Wellington, Fla. - Nov. 26, 2018 - Established by Katherine Gallagher, E2 Show Jumpers specializes in sourcing, developing and selling young horses with proven bloodlines throughout Europe and North America. Since it founding, E2 Show Jumpers has produced top prospects that have successfully competed up through the CSI5* level. Known for their winning ways, the team at E2 Show Jumpers is thrilled to formally announce an exciting new sales partnership with Wolfstone Stables' Schuyler Riley.

Schuyler Riley and Robin de Ponthual

Schuyler Riley and Robin de Ponthual

Riley is a highly respected international show jumping athlete who has represented the United States on countless Nations Cup teams, two World Cup Finals and many international competitions. As one of the most successful show jumpers in American history, the talented professional operates her Wolfstone Stables out of its bases in Stockton, New Jersey and Wellington, Florida. 

Riley is looking forward to training, competing and representing E2 horses for sale. In addition to their U.S. base in Florida with Riley, E2 Show Jumpers has a talented group of horses based in Europe.

Riley is proud to be taking over the reins on some of the E2 Show Jumpers horses and offering them for sale. She acknowledged the stellar training and work that Peter Lutz has put into each of the North American horses.

Schuyler Riley and Carneyhaux Manx after winning the 7-Year-Old Final at the Hampton Classic Horse Show

Schuyler Riley and Carneyhaux Manx after winning the 7-Year-Old Final at the Hampton Classic Horse Show

"I am honored to partner with E2 Show jumpers and Katherine Gallagher," said Riley. " Peter Lutz has done an exceptional job of developing these horses on to the International stage. Now I look forward to promoting all of these horses for sale. The quality condition and training these horses have is extraordinary and I am thrilled to represent them."

A dedicated and passion horsewoman, Gallagher enjoys watching her horses' training develop throughout their careers. She is eager to see Riley's expertise and talent in the saddle continue to bring out each of her horses' potential in the show ring.

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Light Up the Leaderboard

Wellington, Fla. - Oct. 9, 2018 - This week, the talented horses produced by Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses showcased their talent around the globe. They were represented at the the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Columbus CSI3*-W in Ohio, as well as the Zilveren Spoor CSI3* in Belgium. Check out the rounds produced by these up-and-coming stars. For information about sales and horse trials please contact Michael Meller at e2showjumpers@gmail.com.  

Robin De Ponthual

In a close battle for the win in the $135,000 Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Columbus, Peter Lutz piloted Robin de Ponthual to a double clear effort to place second by just 1/10th of a second. 

Robin de Ponthual and Peter Lutz  Photo: Winslow Photography

Robin de Ponthual and Peter Lutz
Photo:
Winslow Photography


Quilimbo

During Saturday's 1.45m Open Jumper CSI3* at the Zilveren Spoor CSI3*, E2 Show Jumper's Quilimbo took home the victory with Dayro Arroyave in the irons for Tal Milstein Stables. 


Very Chic du Tillard

Very Chic du Tillard continued to showcase his talent and consistency in the 1.40m Open Jumpers at the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Columbus CSI3*-W for E2 Show Jumpers, producing multiple clear rounds with Peter Lutz for two top ten finishes.

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Showcase Talent Around the Globe

Wellington, Fla. - August 6, 2018 - The talented horses produced by Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses spent the week showcasing their talent around the globe, from the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival CSI3* to the Beervelde CSI3* and Ommen CSI1*. Check out the rounds produced by these up-and-coming stars. For information about sales and horse trials please contact Michael Meller at e2showjumpers@gmail.com.  


Iceman de Muze

Double clear in 1.50m grand prix qualifier at Beervelde CSI3*


Camillo VDL

$35,000 Grand Traverse Classic


Very Chic Du Tillard

$35,000 Grand Traverse Classic


Upperfield CH 

Double Clear in Ommen CSI1* Grand Prix


Flairvona 

Multiple clear rounds in 1.30m Open Jumpers at Ommen CSI1*


M. Michael Meller Style of Riding Award

Presented to Erynn Ballard at the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival

M. Michael Meller and Erynn Ballard. Photo By: Diana Hadsall

M. Michael Meller and Erynn Ballard. Photo By: Diana Hadsall


The mission of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is to find and produce some of the world's top young show jumping mounts. For more information, please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

M. Michael Meller Joins Forces with Bosch Sporthorses

Wellington, Fla. – July 30, 2018 – M. Michael Meller of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is proud to announce that he has recently sent three of his top show jumping horses to Dutch horseman Peter-Paul Bosch at Bosch Sporthorses facility in Nagele, Netherlands in an effort to further their training.

The team at Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is passionate about show jumping and specializes in finding and bringing along talented young horses through the ranks to the top levels of the sport. Three of Meller's promising horses, Upperfield CH, Goya and Flairvona will continue their development under the precise training and expertise of Bosch.

"My horses are already excelling in Peter-Paul's incredible program," Meller said. "I am so thrilled about this next step in their careers. Peter-Paul understands how to bring out the best qualities in each horse and this new partnership with him is very exciting. I am looking forward to watching their development as each of them continue to progress."

"I met Michael a long time ago in the USA through Peter Lutz, who has been a good friend and business partner for many years. We have been very honored with the fact that Michael wants to work with us," said Bosch.

"The first international show we did with Michael's horses was CSI2* de Wolden," he continued. "We were very happy with the way the horses performed at the show. All three are very pleasant to work with and have great abilities. We are looking forward to the future with this group."

The talented string of horses at Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is leaving their mark in top training programs and showing at some of the finest competition venues throughout North America and Europe. This latest venture with Bosch is an exciting one and the team is eager to see what the future holds and follow these three horses' developments.

The mission of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is to find and produce some of the world's top young show jumping mounts. For more information, please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Creates New European Partnership at Tal Milstein Stables

Wellington, Fla. – July 20, 2018 – Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is thrilled to announce that six of their top European competition horses have moved to Tal Milstein's top-notch training facility, TMS Stables, located in Asse, Belgium. The team is looking forward to the progress that will be made with E2 Show Jumper's Karina, Cazador La Silla, Arena Z, Quilimbo, Iceman De Muze, and Little Beach under Tal Milstein's unparalleled training, care and management. 

Little Beach and Tal Milstein

Little Beach and Tal Milstein

Founded by Katherine Gallagher and Michael Meller, Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is dedicated to sourcing and developing talented young horses to the highest levels in the sport of show jumping and competing them at the finest horse show venues across the United States and abroad.

Tal Milstein has made his mark on equestrian sport after he learned to ride in his native Israel. Milstein mastered his technique in the saddle under some of the biggest names in the show jumping industry including Albert Voorn, Jos Kumps and Nelson Pessoa. Soon after, he relocated to Europe in an effort to expand his business, TMS Stables, to focus on trading horses. Today, Milstein buys and sells horses all over the world and is highly-respected in the community for those looking to purchase talented show jumping mounts.

The fitting partnership between the Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses operation and Tal Milstein made sense as both teams are dedicated to bringing along top show jumping talent through the ranks while ensuring that all horses receive the highest-quality care, a rigorous training regimen, and a program tailored specifically to each horse's needs and individual personalities. As extremely proficient horsemen and women, Gallagher, Meller and Milstein aim to bring out the very best in each horse and maximize their potential.

TMS Stables specializes in the training and trading of high-end show jumpers for all levels of the sport. Milstein and his experienced team are known in the industry for "combining experience and precision to bring riders and horses to excel up to the Grand Prix level." In addition to top-tier training and trading sessions, the operation also specializes in breeding from embryos to proven stallions, all of whom have exceptional bloodlines. 

"I was very happy to receive the phone call from Michael and Kathy asking me to take his horses under my care," Milstein said. "The first time I noticed the horses was in Lanaken at the World Championships for Young Horses. Michael had one good horse after the other, and I quickly realized that he really knows his job and how to choose a horse. Since then, I was constantly asking about the horses, and I am so happy that six of the horses are with me."

Milstein concluded, "I'm very happy to start a collaboration with Michael, Kathy and their team, hopefully for many successful years to come."

"We are so excited to have our horses based with Tal Milstein in Belgium. He is a world-class horseman and he will help take our business to the next level," Gallagher expressed. "These horses are truly ready to make their mark on the world stage, and I know that Tal is the man to help them do that. This is an wonderful partnership and our entire team is looking forward to what the rest of the year will bring together."

The mission of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is to find and produce some of the world's top young show jumping mounts. For more information, please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Finds Continued Success at Spruce Meadows

Calgary, AB – July 9, 2018 – The Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses team built on their success in the show ring following their first week at Spruce Meadows in the ‘National’ Tournament CSI5* presented by Rolex, with three more impressive weeks of competition at the famed venue in Calgary, Alberta with rider Peter Lutz in the irons for owners Katherine Gallagher and M. Michael Meller.

Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual. Photo: Douglas Sinclair

Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual. Photo: Douglas Sinclair

“Spruce Meadows was amazing,” expressed Meller. “It is world-class venue with world-class athletes competing week after week. To have all of our horses be so consistent is very exciting. They all produced multiple clear rounds over difficult courses and learned so much. It’s an exciting time for the Gallagher/Meller team because we have a phenomenal group of horses right now that are really beginning to peak.” 

During their second week, the 'Continental' CSI 5*, held from June 13 -17, Lutz rode the 13-year-old Selle Français gelding, Robin de Ponthual, to a double-clear finish for the third place prize in the 1.55m Scotiabank Cup. Lutz and Camillo VDL completed two clear rounds to capture fourth place in the 1.40m Coril Holdings Barrage. Lutz also piloted Very Chic du Tillard to a clear round early in the week followed by a double-clear finish to earn eighth place in the 1.35m Friends of the Meadows Jumper.

The third week of competition, the 'Pan American' Tournament CSI 5* presented by Rolex, was held from June 26 - July 1. Lutz and Very Chic du Tillard, a 9-year-old Selle Français gelding, were double-clear for fifth in the 1.40m Williams Family Jumper and rode to a clear round in the 1.40m Friends of the Meadows Jumper.

Peter Lutz and Camillo VDL. Photo: Douglas Sinclair

Peter Lutz and Camillo VDL. Photo: Douglas Sinclair

The final week of summer competition at Spruce Meadows, the 'North American' Tournament CSI 5* presented by Rolex, held from July 4 - 8, Lutz and Retiro, a 13-year-old gelding, finished fifth in 1.45m Sun Life Financial Derby. Lutz and the 11-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, Camillo VDL, clear for sixth place in the 1.45m Friends of the Meadows Cup. Lutz and Robin de Ponthual placed seventh in the 1.50m AON Cup as well as the 1.60m ATCO Queen Elizabeth II Cup, while Very Chic du Tillard produced another clear round in the 1.40m Trimac Welcome.

Next the team will head to the Flintfields Horse Park near Traverse City, Michigan for the final two weeks of the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival before returning to Spruce Meadows for the 'Masters' CSIO 5* from September 5 - 9.
 

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Brings Home Blues at Spruce Meadows National CSI5*

Calgary, AB - June 13, 2018 - For years, the renowned team at Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses, led by Michael Meller and Katherine Gallagher, has been frequenting the winner's circle and collecting top prizes at world-class show jumping competitions around the globe including the United States, Ireland and Europe. Currently, the team is in Canada at the well-respected Spruce Meadows venue in Calgary, Alberta accumulating more impressive results to add to their long list of achievements.

During their first week competing at the beautiful venue during the Spruce Meadows National CSI5* presented by Rolex, Peter Lutz and Camillo VDL earned the winning title of the 1.35m Back On Track Cup with a double-clear effort over the challenging track designed by Venezuela's Leopoldo Palacios. Just a few days later, the talented pair bested 24 entries to win the 1.35m Back On Track Cup again with a double-clear performance.

Peter Lutz and Camillo VDL. Photo: Douglas Sinclair/CanSport

Peter Lutz and Camillo VDL. Photo: Douglas Sinclair/CanSport

Lutz also had another great round with his longtime partner Robin Du Ponthual in the competitive $500,000 RBC Grand Prix, finishing up in the top-ten placings. Lutz also guided Retiro to a fifth place ribbon in the 1.55m Bantrel Cup with another double-clear ride and stopped the timers in the jump-off in just 46.73 seconds.

Meller rode the 14-year-old Holsteiner gelding Caius to clear rounds in the 1.20m Open Jumpers with just one time fault in each class to finish up in the top 10 of competition for Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses.

"All of the horses were amazing this week," expressed Meller. "To come to a show like Spruce Meadows and start winning right off the bat is a true testament to the work this team puts in behind the scenes. Camillo and Peter are still a relatively new partnership, but they have become so consistent and Camillo is truly showcasing all of the scope and speed of a future world-class horse. We are thrilled to have had such a great week and we are looking forward to the rest of the competition here."

After a stellar start to their summer competition schedule, the Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses team is presently gearing up for the Spruce Meadows Continental CSI5*, which will run from June 13-17. Not to be outdone by their current string of accomplished show jumpers, the team is also maintaining their focus on sourcing, developing, and breeding the future generation of up-and-coming, young show jumping mounts.

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Now Offering Quarantine Services at Mei Lun Facility in Wellington, Florida

Wellington, Fla. - May 8, 2018 - With the conclusion of the winter show season, and summer circuits fast approaching, the team behind Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is proud to announce they are opening up their world-class facility, known as Mei Lun, in Wellington, Florida, to those importing horses for quarantine during summer and fall 2018.

Mei Lun Photo: Courtesy of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses

Mei Lun
Photo: Courtesy of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses

"Since our business operates on a global scale, it seemed like a perfect fit for us to offer up our Wellington facility to others seeking top quality quarantine services," said Katherine Gallagher, co-owner and founder of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses alongside Michael Meller.

Located in Grand Prix Village with world-class footing, show quality jumps, a fully irrigated derby field and 20 stalls, along with top FEI groom, Liz Wilhelm, on the premises heading the operation full time, Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses' facility is the perfect quarantine choice for the conscientious competitor.

At MMM Horseman, Inc./Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses' Wellington quarantine, horses will receive superb care and individualized attention during their stay including grooming, bathing, turnout and exercise rides with an additional à la carte menu of services. In addition, visitors will have access to the entire facility and its equipment.

Wilhelm grew up riding with a strong background in dressage and hunter/jumper in addition to working with and breaking young horses alongside a dressage trainer. She graduated college with a business management degree and began working full time as a groom and flat rider shortly thereafter. She has FEI experience grooming up to the CSI5* level.

Full-time groom, Liz Wilhelm (pictured), will be heading Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses' new quarantine program at their Mei Lun facility this summer and fall in Wellington, Florida. Photo: Kathy Russell Photography

Full-time groom, Liz Wilhelm (pictured), will be heading Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses' new quarantine program at their Mei Lun facility this summer and fall in Wellington, Florida. Photo: Kathy Russell Photography

"Besides taking care of my own horses while they are in quarantine, I have a great deal of hands on experience and knowledge on how a quarantine should run from managing another private quarantine in Wellington during a previous season," said Wilhelm.

Horses quarantined at Mei Lun will be specially selected by Meller and Wilhelm, but all are welcome to inquire regarding MMM Horseman, Inc./Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses' quarantine services. For more information, contact Wilhelm at liz.wilhelm@comcast.net or call 256-694-2143.

The mission of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is to find and produce some of the world's top young show jumping mounts. For more information, please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Welcomes Young Talent Through New North American Breeding Operation

Wellington, Fla. - Feb. 19, 2018 - Founded by Katherine Gallagher and M. Michael Meller, Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses are internationally recognized for their eye of developing talented young Warmbloods into top show jumping mounts. In addition to their string of world-class bloodlines, Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is thrilled to introduce their new breeding program with two prospective sport horses born in the spring of 2016.

Born in the spring of 2016, Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses welcomed their first two offsprings Q Arthur G&M and Q Merlin G&M.

Merlin.jpg

Q Arthur G&M is a striking bay colt is by Obourg, the Elite Belgian Warmblood (BWP) son of Richebourg, and out of Uderma. The sire, Obourg, had a very successful career at the grand prix level with Olympian Lisa Jaquin, and his other progeny include Espyrante, winner of the Horseware Grand Prix at WEF 2013 and Hertogin Odeveld, the overall champion of the 3 to 6-year-old mares at the National BWP mare show in Belgium in 2013.

Arthur.jpg

Their second bay colt, is Q Merlin G&M by Orlando, the 2002 6-year-old Belgian Champion and winner of the 2004 CSIO4* 1.50m in Lummen and out of Chico's Girl. Orlando's sire, Heartbreaker, has produced numerous offspring jumping at the upper levels of show jumping, including the 2006 Belgian Stallion Selection Champion Dulf Van Den Bisschop. Orlando's dam sire, Darco, was voted best sire in the world in 2010 for the fourth year in a row, and he has produced over 3000 foals in his breeding career, including McLain Ward's Olympic mount Sapphire.

"Our team here at Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses are really looking forward to seeing how Q Arthur G&M and Q Merlin G&M develop throughout the next few years," Meller explained. "We hope to see them have great results and success in the sport of show jumping."

Nicki Tolppa runs the Gallagher/Meller Sport Horse breeding program, and they are expecting three more foals in the spring of 2018, including foals by Diamant de Semily, Van Gogh and Chin Quidam.

Katherine Gallagher has a strong passion for breeding and combining the right bloodlines to produce top horses for the future. She enjoys working with the babies as they progress and seeing which area they will go on to excel in. Michael Meller is always thinking of the future of the equestrian sport. He always believes that our actions as horse people should be done with the utmost respect for the horse. Together, they have created a world-class operation with bases in North American and Europe, showcasing the best equine athletes in the sport. 

Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Welcomes Three Horses to the United States

Wellington, Fla. - Jan. 18, 2017 - Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is thrilled to announce the arrival of three horses from their European partners, E2 Show Jumpers, to the United States.

Caius with Kathy Gallagher and Michael Meller

Caius with Kathy Gallagher and Michael Meller

Founded by Katherine Gallagher and Michael Meller, Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is dedicated to bringing along young horses to the highest levels in the sport of show jumping.
 
The team is looking forward to watching the progression of these special horses, Caius, Camillo VDL, and Very Chic Du Tillard, throughout the 2018 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Wellington, Florida with rider Peter Lutz.
 
Caius, a 2004 Holsteiner gelding by Caretino out of My Lady VII, has been competitive in the 1.40m and 1.50m divisions in Spain with Irish rider, Dan Walsh, as well as with Great Britain's Stacy Babes in prior years at WEF. Most recently, he was third in the Omagh Show National Grand Prix.

Caius

Caius

Camillo VDL is a 2007 Dutch Warmblood by Douglas out of Winett M. The talented chestnut stallion has competed in the 1.45m Open Jumpers and has showed at the 2* and 3* levels. He was third at the CSI2* Mullingar Grand Prix in Ireland with Babes.

Camillo VDL

Camillo VDL

The third horse to round out the group, Very Chic Du Tillard, is a 2009 Selle Francais by Diamant De Semilly out of Jumping Queen 3. The bay gelding showed his athleticism and scope in the 1.40m division in both Ireland and Spain.

Very Chic du Tillard

Very Chic du Tillard

The mission of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is to find and produce some of the world's top young show jumping mounts. For more information, please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

Gallagher/Meller Mounts Dominate Pan American CSI5* at Spruce Meadows

Peter Lutz and Retiro - Photo courtesy of SportFot

Peter Lutz and Retiro - Photo courtesy of SportFot

Calgary, Alberta - July 5, 2017 - Spruce Meadows is one of the top destinations for the world's elite show jumping athletes. For the team at Gallagher/Meller, it has become a staple on their summer calendar, and during the Pan American CSI5* tournament Peter Lutz piloted Robin De Ponthual and Retiro to top finishes for the United States and owners Katherine Gallagher and M. Michael Meller.  
 
 On Sunday, just over a year after their victory in the 2016 $375,000 CP Grand Prix CSI5*, Lutz and Robin De Ponthual scored the second place prize in the $380,000 Pan American CSI5* Grand Prix, presented by Rolex. The pair was the first to return for the three-horse jump-off, setting the pace with a clear effort in 53.97 seconds, which would be good enough for second place honors.
 
"The course was tough, but Robin likes this ring and did well here last year," noted Lutz. "He's been good since we've been here, and everything fell into place today. The course designer, Peter Grant, used the entire field and I think that suits Robin. He has a big stride and covers a lot of ground. Going first I was a little bit tentative. I really wanted to put the clear in and put the pressure on the others. It was a really great jump-off and Robin jumped beautifully."

Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual - Photo courtesy of SportFot

Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual - Photo courtesy of SportFot

The top finish on Sunday came just one day after Lutz and Retiro scored the third place award in the Friends of the Meadow Cup. "Sometimes that's a nice turning point," said Lutz. "If anotherhorse does well it keeps the momentum going. Everyone was really positive and in a good frame of mind today, and I think that's really important."

On Saturday, 11 horses qualified for the jump-off during the 1.50m classic, with six producing a second clear effort. Lutz and Retiro clocked in at 45.26 seconds with all of the rails intact, just two seconds off the leader's winning pace for third place honors.  

"I was so happy with Retiro," expressed Lutz. "He has had some really good rounds and had just one rail down the day before, so he was really on his game. I feel like I've gotten to know him this year and I've really developed a partnership with that horse. He's gotten physically stronger and I know him better." 

Lutz concluded, "It all comes down to believing in the team and having a good partnership with the horse. That's clicked this year with that horse. I really trust him and I know him."

The team includes owner and trainer M. Michael Meller, who was thrilled to have both horses achieve such outstanding performances at the world-class venue. "This has been a wonderful week for the team here. We made a plan for this week and it really paid off. Peter, Robin and the entire team have worked really hard and it is exciting to see it all come together like this."

The Gallagher/Meller team will continue to compete at Spruce Meadows before heading back to the United States for the Hampton Classic and the American Gold Cup. The Gallagher/Meller team would like to thank all of their sponsors for all of their support including EquiFit, CWD, KEP Italia, Galante, Fabbri Boots, Equine Omega Complete, Equi In Style, Superior Equestrian and Éce Equestrian. For more information about the team, please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

Robin de Ponthual and Peter Lutz Earn Silver Medal in FEI Nations Cup™ Debut at Coapexpan

Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual competing in the FEI Nations Cup™ CSIO4* Coapexpan. (Photo: Anwar Esquivel)

Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual competing in the FEI Nations Cup™ CSIO4* Coapexpan. (Photo: Anwar Esquivel)

Xalapa, Mexico - May 10, 2017 - After a successful season in Wellington competing at the Winter Equestrian Festival with Peter Lutz, Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses' Robin de Ponthual took some time to relax before returning to the show ring in top form to participate in their first FEI Nations Cup™ competition at CSIO4* Coapexpan in Xalapa, Mexico.

Lutz and the 12-year-old Selle Français gelding, along with owner and trainer M. Michael Meller who was onsite throughout the event, kicked off their week in Mexico with a clear round in the Welcome Class on Thursday, which provided as a nice warm-up around the big grass field heading in to Friday's Nations Cup.

Alongside Quentin Judge, Adrienne Sternlicht, Alison Robitaille and Chef d'Équipe Robert Ridland, Lutz and Robin de Ponthual contributed to Team USA's silver medal finish in the FEI Nations Cup™ CSIO4* Coapexpan on Friday. The Hermès U.S. Show Jumping Team finished on a total of 17 penalties, just one point behind the gold medal-winning Mexico team. Yet Friday's performances were enough to keep Team USA at the top of the North America, Central America and Caribbean standings heading into the division final at CSIO3* Langley May 31-June 4.

Left to right: Peter Lutz, Alison Robitaille, Chef d'Équipe Robert Ridland, Adrienne Sternlicht and Quentin Judge. (Photo: Anwar Esquivel)

Left to right: Peter Lutz, Alison Robitaille, Chef d'Équipe Robert Ridland, Adrienne Sternlicht and Quentin Judge. (Photo: Anwar Esquivel)

The pair's success continued on Sunday as they captured seventh place in the prestigious Grand Prix Veracruz CSI4*, while the rest of Team USA also collected top 10 finishes.

"Coapexpan was a great experience," said Lutz. "It was such a nice team to be a part of. Robert Ridland is such a pleasure to work with and was a great chef d'équipe. Michael and I had a great experience. Robin did very well and jumped a beautiful clear round on Sunday. He got better each time he showed. We were so happy with the way he closed out the show on Sunday in the grand prix."

Lutz first donned the pinque coat during the 2016 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final in Gothenburg, Sweden, where he and Robin de Ponthual finished among the top 20 in the world. After a successful winter season and Nations Cup debut, the pair is prepared to continue to represent the United States on the world stage.

Next, Lutz and Meller will head to the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows to continue to campaign the rest of Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses' up-and-coming North American show jumpers, Retiro, Cheri de Papignies and Sam 1091, before joining Robin de Ponthual at Spruce Meadows, where the pair won the $375,000 CP Grand Prix CSI5* in 2016, in June.

Katherine Gallagher and Meller founded Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses to support Lutz and his top horses in North America. For more information, please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

Behind The Stall Door With: Robin De Ponthual

You don’t have to guess which horse is the top dog when you walk down E2 Showjumping’s barn aisle in Wellington, Fla.—it’s the one with a personal television in the corner of his stall.

Robin De Ponthual has earned his luxurious digs. The horse has been competing at the international level with rider Peter Lutz for the past three years. The pair captured their first grand prix win together in 2015 at the $35,000 Grand Prix of Princeton (N.J.). Later that year they followed it up with a victory in the $100,000 Longines FEI Las Vegas World Cup qualifier. Lutz and Robin competed at the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Final in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2016, and a few months after they won the $375,000 CP Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows (Alberta).

That face! Photo by Ann Glavan

That face! Photo by Ann Glavan

This year the gelding has made six FEI competition appearances, finishing ninth in the $380,000 Fidelity Investments Grand Prix in Wellington, Fla., on March 23. This week, “Robin” and Lutz are in Mexico as part of the U.S. team for the FEI Nations Cup in Coapexpan.

The spunky 12-year-old Selle Fracais gelding (Elf D’Or—Io De La Grange, Calypso D’Herbiers) has no qualms about voicing his opinions, whether that’s in the barn, out in the paddock or in the show ring. Robin rules the roost.

Photo by Ann Glavan

Photo by Ann Glavan

“He has a lot of personality,” Lutz said. “He’s very outgoing and really smart.”

“I know this horse really well, I know him better than any other horse,” said Chuy Escalera, Robin’s groom. “He’s my favorite, not just because he’s a really good horse, because of his personality.”

Get to know Robin De Ponthual a bit better as we go behind the stall door with him:

• If Robin had a favorite Disney movie, it would probably be Frozen. Robin gets his legs iced before and after he competes with Lutz.

“He loves ice,” Escalera said. “You fill the muck tub with ice and he doesn’t move. Normally when I’m getting him ready for the show, I put him in the ice while I braid him.”

Other treatments Robin enjoys on a spa day include time on the TheraPlate and sessions with his magnet pulse blanket. He also wears a Back On Track sheet in his stall.

Robin hanging out in his Back On Track sheet. Photo by Ann Glavan

Robin hanging out in his Back On Track sheet. Photo by Ann Glavan

When it comes to grazing, Robin eats to the beat of his own drum. If his paddock were a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, he only eats the crusts.

“He doesn’t want the grass over there he just wants this,” Escalera said, pointing to the grass under the fence boards Robin is tearing away at. “When he’s loose he does the same thing.”

Eating around the edges. Photo by Ann Glavan

Eating around the edges. Photo by Ann Glavan

Getting Robin out to his paddock for his crusts-only grazing can be quite the undertaking.

“We need a chain to turn him out sometimes, like when he’s been at a show for a week and is getting turned out again for the first time,” Escalera said. “The first day after we get back from a horse show he’s a disaster in the paddock running.”

Robin in a more mellow moment. Photo by Ann Glavan

Robin in a more mellow moment. Photo by Ann Glavan

When he’s at horse shows, Robin trades his turn-out time for a few spins on the lunge line, adding in some airs above ground.

“He’s actually very good on the lunge line—he just bucks—but when he bucks it’s huge,” Escalera said. “On the line and when he’s being ridden. If he’s jumping or schooling and he hits the rail he really bucks.”

Robin has a bit of a princess and the pea situation going on in his stall—the horse spends his days hock deep in fluffy clean shavings. Escalera estimates there are about 20 bags of shavings in the stall at any given time.

And let’s not forget the TV situation in the stall—Robin might be the only horse with the perfect set-up to kick back in his shavings bed and binge watch Netflix on his flat screen mounted above the stall, but believe it or not the TV actually serves a very practical purpose.

Robin’s own personal television! Photo by Ann Glavan

Robin’s own personal television! Photo by Ann Glavan

Chuy Escalera uses the remote to find Robin a round to watch. Photo by Ann Glavan

Chuy Escalera uses the remote to find Robin a round to watch. Photo by Ann Glavan

“When we first got him he didn’t like the jumbotron,” Michael Maller, one of Robin’s owners, explained. “So we got this and we play his favorite rounds on the TV.”

The system is connected to the internet, so through live streaming, Robin can watch both replays of his victories and live streams of current classes. How’s that for studying up on the competition?

When Robin does well in the show ring, he puts on a show strutting out with all kinds of swagger.

“When he comes out of the ring and he’s had a clear round he’s excited, he knows,” Escalera said. “And if there’s no people, no crowd, he’s quiet, but if there’s people he’s like, ‘Oh I did it well.’ It can be a challenge to walk him back to the stall from the ring—he’s rearing up and trying to kick other horses, biting people.”

Not to worry though, Robin wears a red ribbon in his tail when he competes, so fellow horses are at least warned that there is a rambunctious gelding in their midst.

He’s not shy! Photo by Ann Glavan

He’s not shy! Photo by Ann Glavan

Robin is no cuddly bug of a horse—he can be a perfect gentlemen, but he also knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to ask for it.

“If he doesn’t like what you’re doing, he pins his ears back,” Escalera said. “He has a character, he has an opinion.”

“He’s really a very sweet horse, he’s just a sweet with his own way of doing things,” Maller said. “He demands attention, he tells people ‘Hey take care of me.’ He knows he’s in charge.”

Photo by Ann Glavan

Photo by Ann Glavan

Robin’s home at E2 Showjumping in Wellington, Fla. Photo by Ann Glavan

Robin’s home at E2 Showjumping in Wellington, Fla. Photo by Ann Glavan

Photos and story by: Ann Glavan/Chronicle of the Horse

Robin de Ponthual and Peter Lutz Selected for Coapexpan Nations Cup Team

Wellington, Fla. - April 26, 2017 - Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses is pleased to announce that rider Peter Lutz has been named to the United States Nations Cup Team for the FEI CSIO4* Coapexpan in Xalapa, Mexico. Lutz will be aboard top mount Robin de Ponthual, winner of the $375,000 CP Grand Prix CSI5* at Spruce Meadows.

"This is my first Nations Cup team and I am so excited to be a part of it," expressed Lutz. "It's something I have always wanted to do and it's a great team. I hear it's a beautiful show and I am really looking forward to representing my country."

Peter Lutz and Robin de Ponthual

Fellow U.S. athletes Quentin Judge, Alison Robitaille and Adrienne Sternlicht will join Lutz and Robin de Ponthual during the FEI Nations Cup event. Lutz first donned the pinque coat during the 2016 FEI Show Jumping World Cup Finals in Gothenburg, Sweden, where he and Robin de Ponthual finished in the top 20 in the world. After a successful winter season, the pair is prepared to represent the United States once again on the world stage.

"Robin had a great season in Florida and he was very consistent," explained Lutz. "He showed on the sand and on grass. I feel like he's ready and he's in great shape physically. We've continued to get to know each other and we feel ready."

Owner and trainer M. Michael Meller will travel with Lutz to Mexico and is excited to watch the pair compete. "Robin has shown how much talent he has since day one," noted Meller. "It's been wonderful to watch Peter and him develop together and see the partnership they have formed. I feel very confident going into this event, and it's always an honor to be chosen to represent your country."

Following the Coapexpan Nations Cup, Lutz and Meller will travel to the Old Salem Spring Horse Shows to compete with Retiro, Cheri de Papignies and Sam 1091 before joining Robin de Ponthual at Spruce Meadows in June.

Katherine Gallagher and Michael Meller founded Gallagher/Meller Sporthorses to support Peter Lutz and his top horses in North America. For more information please visit www.gallaghermeller.com.

E2 Show Jumpers Announces Sponsorship of National Horse Show

Lexington, KY – Aug. 29, 2016 – E2 Show Jumpers proudly announces their support as a corporate sponsor for the 2016 CP National Horse Show, which will take place this fall at the Kentucky Horse Park from November 1 – 6.

Founded by Katherine Gallagher, Michael Meller and Dan Walsh, the mission of E2 Show Jumpers is to find and produce the world’s top, young show jumping sporthorses. Their large group of talented horses are based in Europe, with recent top placings at the Dublin International Horse Show.

Peter Lutz and Gallagher/Meller’s Robin De Ponthua

Peter Lutz and Gallagher/Meller’s Robin De Ponthua

“At E2 Show Jumpers, one of our core beliefs is giving back to the sport of show jumping and supporting outstanding events in our industry,” said Meller. “It is so important to us to support top-quality events around the world, with the National Horse Show being one of them. It is so important to support FEI events in the United States.”

Gallagher/Meller Sporthorses

In addition to their ownership of E2 Show Jumpers, Katherine Gallagher and Michael Meller founded Gallagher/Meller Sporthorses to support Peter Lutz and his top horses in North America. Robin De Ponthual scored the winning honors during the $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Las Vegas. In 2016, after a top 20 finish at the FEI Show Jumping World Cup Finals in Gothenburg, Sweden, Lutz and Robin de Ponthual continued their success with their biggest win to date: the $375,000 CP Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows.

M. Michael Meller Style Award

In addition to his corporate sponsorship with E2 Show Jumpers, Meller will present the M. Michael Meller Style Award to the international equestrian who exemplifies the best style of riding along with maintaining a sportsmanlike composure. Previous winners at events in 2015 and 2016 include Andres Rodriguez, Michael Pender, Chloe Reid and Conor Swail.

M. Michael Meller presents the style award at the American Gold Cup.

M. Michael Meller presents the style award at the American Gold Cup.

Meller added, “The tradition of presenting the M. Michael Meller Style Award at elite events is a special way of recognizing the wonderfully talented riders that we have in our sport. It is very important to support those riders as they try and achieve success at the highest levels of show jumping.”

Highlight events during the 2016 CP National Horse Show include the 2016 ASPCA Maclay National Championship, the USEF Under 25 Championship and the $250,000 Longines FEI World Cup Jumping™ Lexington CSI-W4*.

For more information about E2 Showjumpers, please visit https://e2showjumpers.com/.

For more information about the National Horse Show, please visit http://www.nhs.org/.