09/21/2026
Today, our 24-year-old Fred (Stay Gone) trotted into the show ring and won his championship class in a competitive 8-horse class. And while the ribbon means so much, what Fred represents to us means even more.
Fred is a true breed ambassador. He goes from patiently carrying little kids in up/down lessons to stepping into the show ring and proving that age is just a number. He has taught countless riders, given so many kids confidence, and somehow always knows exactly what his person needs from him, even if he’s a grumpy old man while doing it.
At 24, Fred is now dealing with a hoof condition that means he can only wear a keg shoe. Because of this, we believe today may have been his last horse show. If it was, I truly cannot imagine a more perfect way for him to retire. ❤️
A huge thank you to Layllah Brenner, who piloted Fred so beautifully through that competitive class and gave him the ride he deserved. And to Daytona Mueller, who also had absolutely beautiful classes with him. I could not be more proud of both of these girls and, more importantly, the way they love Fred. They understand what a special horse he is, and it shows every time they sit in his saddle.
They say a free horse is never really free… but Fred has given me so much more than he has ever taken from me. The lessons, the memories, the kids he has taught, the confidence he has built, the ribbons, the laughs, and so much more. It seems only fitting that this was Cobblestones first Grand Champion. 🥹❤️🐴
