Offspring News

Breeders and owners of Hilltop Farm stallion offspring are reporting exciting news from all over the country! Congratulations to each of you! We encourage breeders and owners of Hilltop stallion offspring to send in photos to be posted with the news.
Use our easy online form to submit your Hilltop Offspring News.

2008 Birth Announcements (Posting Updated 7/27/08)

Owners' Notes and Snapshots  (Posting Updated 6/20/08)

Ringside with Hilltop Stallions' Offspring  (Posting Updated 6/20/08)

Cabana Boy (Contucci x Britianna)
bred by Doug & Shannon Langer

2008 BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS

May & June Foal Photos

April & May Foal Photos

March & April Foal Photos

February & March Foal Photos
 

• Heidi Brueckner of Olney, Maryland ~ “Orion” by Reno out of Big Hearted Lady (born 7/1)

• Sarah Pederson of Alberta, Canada ~ a filly by Riverman out of Cameo

• Virginia Tech University ~ a colt by Tiamo Trocadero out of Molly Brown (born 6/21)

• Lynn Marohn of Franktown, Colorado ~ a filly by Riverman out of Isabella (born 6/18)

• Leeann Avellino of Gunter, Texas ~ a colt by Riverman out of Arabella (born 6/9)

• Melinda Walton of Santa Fe, New Mexico ~ a colt by Contucci out of Redoute

• Melinda Walton of Santa Fe, New Mexico ~ a colt by Contucci out of Portiana

• Judy Dobbs Lewis  of Mobile, Alabama ~ a filly “Absolutely Maybe” by Riverman out of Do It With Ease (born 6/14)

• Jennifer Yamnicky of Aquasco, Maryland ~ a colt by Werbellin out of Maid Marion (born 6/12)

• George Newtown of Benton, Louisiana ~ a filly by Festrausch out of Norma Rae (born 6/7)

• Tami Randall of New Boston, New Hampshire ~ a colt by Riverman out of Strom Colony

• Berend Friehe of Moses Lake, Washington ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Ramona

• Leslie Feakins of Lancaster, Pennsylvania ~ a colt by Festrausch out of Giselle (born 6/13)

• Cottonwood Springs Ranch  in Bayfield, Colorado ~ a colt by Bugatti Hilltop out of Wolkenbrooke (born 5/12)

• Bob Mioduszewski  of Lynchburg, Virginia ~ a filly by Tiamo Trocadero out of EM Chatham (born 6/12)

• Cia Giunti of Williamsburg, Virginia ~ a colt “Riley” by Royal Appearance out of Carabella (born 5/16)

• Dan Rickert of Kiowa, Colorado ~ a filly “Arianna” by Cabaret out of Luceta (born 6/6)

• Kendle Buffington  of West Chester, Pennsylvania ~ a filly by Royal Prince out of Daniella (born 6/7)

• Karen Guthrie of Preston, Maryland ~ a filly by Contucci out of Wauchula

• Corrine Young of Turlock, California ~ a filly “Fiametta del Amore” by Festrausch out of Love on Ice (born 6/4)

• Karin Offield  of Chesapeake City, Maryland ~ a colt by Tiamo Trocadero out of SPS Danina (born 6/5)

• Cottonwood Springs Ranch in Bayfield, Colorado ~ a filly by Contucci out of Wolkenbrooke (born 5/20)

• Tracy Tschakert of Barnesville, Minnesota ~ a colt by Bugatti Hilltop out of Turn the Card Baby (born 5/28)

• The Dupuis Family in West Brookfield, Massachusettes ~ “Wunderval” a colt by Werbellin out of Sabine Queen xx (born 5/28)

• Barbara Ferneyhough of Millwood, Virginia ~ a filly by Royal Prince out of Sweets for Ernie (born 5/14)

• Ilona English of Ringoes, New Jersey ~ “Popstar” a filly by Popeye out of Faschon (born 5/24)

• Ilona English of Ringoes, New Jersey ~ “Pixie” a filly by Popeye out of Ossa (born 5/23)

• Tami Randall of New Boston, New Hampshire ~ a foal by Riverman out of Storm Colony

• Laurie Cameron of Stockton, New Jersey ~ a filly by Quite Easy out of Eloise (born 2/3)

• Fiona Gowers  of Lincoln University, Pennsylvania ~ a colt by Tiamo Trocadero out of Bucks Careen

• Jeanna Merrell  of Prescott, Arizona ~ a filly by Contucci out of Margareta 

• Lyn Francik  of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma ~ a colt by Contucci out of Gaia

• Carol Griffith of Meridan, Idaho ~ a filly by Tiamo Trocadero out of My Fair Lady (born 5/25)

• Jim Snapp of Brenham, Texas ~ a filly by Royal Prince out of Silena

• Amanda Caputo of Warrenton, Virginia ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Notice Me (born 5/14)

• Jen Mason of Orange, California ~ “Finesse” a filly by Frestrausch out of Breanna

• Kendle Buffington & Donna Borgnis of WestChester, Pennsylvania ~ a filly by Festrausch out of Contesse (born 5/21)

• Cece Sutton of Edgemoors, South Carolina ~ “Donnatucci” a filly by Contucci out of Prima Donna (born 5/18)

• Marina Genn of Leesburg, Virginia ~ a filly by Bugatti Hilltop out of Ramina

• Helena Hardy of Fairview, Pennsylvania ~ a filly by Riverman out of Freudenfall (born 5/16)

• Cynthia Herman of Middlefield, Massachusetts ~ a colt by Contucci out of Lyrical (born 5/15)

• Aimee Edwards of Winnemucca, Nevada ~ a filly by Contucci out of Ceara (born 5/6)

• Tricia Scott of Valley View, Texas ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Fresca (born 5/13)

• Darlene Pessein of Hauser, Idaho ~ “Deja” a filly by Donarweiss out of Amy (born 5/13)

• Darla D’Agay of Grenada, California ~ “Dauphine” a filly by Royal Prince out of Notorious (born 5/10)

• Janet Meyer of Bend, Oregon ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Restless Mama (born 5/3)

• Kris Schuler of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Diotima (born 5/8)

• Tammy Paparella of Pratts Farm ~ “Delaney” a filly by Donarweiss GGF out of Ianthe (born 5/9)

• Angela Cook of Fergus, Ontario ~ “Reyana” a filly by Royal Prince out of Hannah (born 4/28)

• Beth Hammill of Springfield, Virginia ~ “Riley” a colt by Royal Prince out of Devonessa (born 5/3) 

• Stacie Crocetti of Bremen, Maine ~ a filly by Donarweiss GGF out of Eurdie (born 4/29)

• Natalie Prentice of Milwaukee, Wisconsin ~ “Luke” a colt by Parabol out of Cricket (born 5/3)

• Sarah Matters-Burchmann of Griswold, Connecticut ~ “Werrina” a filly by Werbellin out of Adaline (born 4/4)

• Gigi Meyers of Bend, Oregon ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Keyto Con (born 4/26)

• Susan Meyer of Addy, Washington ~ a colt by Riverman out of Martinas (born 4/26)

• Charlotte Wrather of Los Alamos, California ~ a filly by Riverman out of Marisol (born 4/22)

• Ellen Ziemer of Bahama, North Carolina ~ a filly by Cordini out of Phantasia (born 4/26)

• Cheryl Metz of Canaan, New York ~ a filly by Contucci out of Leora Ann (born 4/14)

• Maya Sniadecky of Lowell, Florida ~ “Ziggy”, a colt by Royal Prince out of Fleury

• Christine Roseberry of Ona, West Virginia ~ “London Calling”, a colt by Royal Prince out of Akino (ET) (born 4/23)

• George Newtown of Benton, Louisiana ~ a filly by Festrausch out of Hannah (born 4/23)

• Debbie Russ of Wilmington, North Carolina ~ “Royal Treasure” a colt by Riverman out of My Hidden Treasure (born 4/17)

• Kim Brown of Granger, Indiana ~ a filly by Contucci out of Albina (born 4/18)

• Nicole Bisping of Yakima, Washington ~ a colt by Contucci out of Hacapella (born 4/16)

• Tina Donatoni Frost of Santa Paula, California ~ a colt by Donarweiss GGF out of Copacabana (born 4/12)

• Kathy Mueller of Hastings, Minnesota ~ a filly by Bugatti out of Rhoyal Riviera (born 4/9)

• Meredith Michelfelder of Moulton, Alabama ~ a filly by Contucci out of Karrena (born 4/9)

• Julia Hirzel of Peninsula, Ohio ~ a colt by Contucci out of Wunschtraum (born 4/7)

• Haley Glick of Texarkana, Arkansas ~ a filly by Cordini out of Denim N’ Lace (born 4/3)

• Faith Leatherman of Union Bridge, Maryland ~ a filly by Donarweiss out of The Soph (born 3/26)

• Kay Lamp of Woodsboro, Maryland ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Corissma (born 4/6)

• Christine Roseberry of Ona, West Virginia ~ a filly by Royal Prince out of Akino (born 4/4)

• Judy Smith of Claremore, Oklahoma ~ a colt by Riverman out of Miss Zoot (born 4/1)

• Jeannette Leroux of Purcellville, Virginia ~ “Repeat Performance”, a colt by Royal Prince out of EM Graphitti (born 3/31)

• Maryanna Haymon of Columbus, North Carolina ~ a filly by Royal Prince out of Diora (born 3/30)

• Carrie Vacolas of Johnstown, Ohio ~ a filly by Donarweiss GGF out of Mia (born 3/29)

• Genevieve Lavigne of Ottawa, Ontario & owner Siri Ingebritsen  ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Windsong (born 3/29)

• Meredith Michelfelder of Moulton, Alabama ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of Reminisce (born 3/28)

• Chris Marks-Skow of Hartford, Wisconsin ~ a filly by Festrausch out of Rising Star (born 3/26)

• Sheila O’Keefe of Charlestown, West Virginia ~ a filly by Popeye out of Eleganz (born 3/19)

• Barb Saldinger Zylbert of Los Gatos, California ~ a filly by Riverman out of Can Dee Corn (born 3/19)

• Marie Emery & Lazy J Sporthorses of North East, Maryland ~ a colt by Cor Noir out of To Be Frank (born 3/17)

• Didi Callahan of Oxford Maryland ~ a colt by Quite Easy out of Little Black (born 3/17)

• Karen Brame and Sandie Dennis of Reidsville, North Carolina ~ a filly by Royal Prince out of Accolades (born 3/16)

• Leeann Avellino of Gunter, Texas ~ a colt by Bugatti out of Kindled Passion (born 3/12)

• Marcia Holton of Sarasota, Florida ~ a filly by Festrausch out of Carina (born 3/12)

• Mary Lou Winn of Waldo, Florida ~ a colt by Royal Prince out of SPA Diva (born 3/6)

• Christina Way and Corrine Young of California ~ a filly by Riverman out of Point the Way (born 3/11)

• Carsten and Kim Meyer of Louisiana ~  a colt by Festrausch out of Tessa (born 3/7)

• Kimberly Russell of Berwyn, Pennsylvania ~ a filly by Riverman out of Amazing Again (born 3/3)

• Beth Custalow of San Diego, CA ~ a colt by Bugatti out of Romantic (born 3/3)

• Corinne Young of Turlock, California ~ a filly by Contucci out of Logan (born 2/28)

• Kevin Sells of Pflugerville, Texas ~ a colt by Riverman out of Annabelle’s Lil Dream (born 2/17)

• Gwendolyn King-Siem of Bundeberg, Australia ~ a colt by Parabol out of Dane Queen

Top

OWNERS'  NOTES AND SNAPSHOTS

Just wanted to send you some Pictures of Riley. He is the foal that is being donated for Va Tech. His momma is Bella Mia by Bugatti out of the Contucci Mare Carabella. His Daddy is Royal Appearance.  I've Enclosed a couple pictures of him by himself and one with his mom He was only a day old in these. He was born at the decent hour of 9:45 pm on the 16 of May.  He is healthy spunky and ultra Friendly. We look forward to watching him grow.

Cira Giunti

(Posted 6/20/08)

Sue Brophy

(Posted 5/808)

Cammy Kelly

(Posted 5/808)

I am really happy with the colt I would keep the foal if it had been a filly.  I really got what I wanted from Royal Prince he refined my mare and gave Regazzi nice long legs. Also I was looking for a little more energy which I think he got and he improved the canter. He is very bold and playful, full of personality and loves people.

Maya Sniadecky

(Posted 4/28/08)

I visited Quite Easy's breeder in Germany this past February.  I was looking at young horses to purchase and in trying to find a horse traveled to Germany 3 times in a 6 week period -- and amazingly enough did not find a young horse as nice as my Quite Easy 3 yr old.  Not only is he formed beautifully and moves great ... his mind is amazing.  He is so sensible, loves a challenge, bright, and not spooky.  That is why I keep breeding back to Quite Easy... my 3 yr old and yearling have such great minds.  There is certainly something to the 'character' that the German breeders talk so much about.  I am a believer!

Anyway, back to the breeder.  They named Quite Easy his name because everything about him was easy.  He had a great brain, was easy to handle, ride, jump everything.  From the time he was born he was easy.  And that is how my young horses are.  When I started riding my 3 yr old.  That is what I did... just got on and rode him!

Laura Connaway

(Posted 4/3/08)

Ballerina and I attended our second horse show at the Ocala Horse Park 2 weeks ago. The wind was gusting 39 miles per hour, at times it was blowing the ring and letters over!!! Many horses would not even enter the ring. Ballerina (by Bugatti) was calm and composed. She is so very rideable. We entered training 2 and won with a 73.2%, later in the day we showed training 4, under Jessica Ransenhousen, and won with a 68%. On Sunday we rode training 4 again, and were second with a 72%. I can not say enough about this mare's talent and character. She is a blessing.

Andrea L Hayden

(Posted 4/3/08)

Berlioz is currently in training (in Florida) in preparation for the FEI 5 year old test in the fall.  Berlioz continues to thrill us with his natural athleticism, super gaits and warm personality.  We were fortunate enough to see his sire, Bugatti, a few weeks ago at one of the shows in West Palm.  Berlioz is certainly his father's son in expression, power and elegance.

Patricia Nodecker

(Posted 4/3/08)

My daughter got to imprint her first foal and has been on cloud nine but a bit tired.  The mare showed it to be 18hrs away Friday evening and waited until Sunday night while everyone was gone.  My daughter found him when she went back up there at 10pm to check the mare.  He was already standing and trying to nurse.  He nursed with no problems and the mare is being a good first mom.  First Foaling Story of the Year - My daughter thought it was our trainer's great dane "Waldo" at first but she couldn't figure out how he would have got in the stall and why Belle didn't hurt him.  Then she got the flashlight on the colt and realized Belle had her baby.  It wasn't "Waldo" in her stall.

Kevin Sells

(Posted 4/3/08)

I am so thrilled with Don Trois (by Donarweiss) who will be two in April and is about 15.1h now so I am hoping he doesn’t go beyond 16h!  He is affectionate, sweet and very brave!  He shows all the signs of a true “ham” that will excel in the show ring.  He started his ground work with obstacles and began to pony down the road to get used to traffic along with Wundertritt (by Werbellin) who is also a joy to have in the barn.  This year we plan to attend a few shows to let them get used to the chaos.  These foals will make terrific partners!

Pamela LaFave

(Posted 4/3/08)

Enclosed please find some pictures of Riverman's offspring that we wanted to share with you.  We attended the AHHA Inspection in October 2007 at the Michigan Sport Horse Center and wanted to share the good news.  Pristine River Dew is a near carbon copy of Riverman, only with a feminine flair.  She inherited Riverman's charismatic style, natural swing, elasticity and rhythm in all gaits.  This mare is kind, sensible, patient, and a true joy to be around.  Water Lilly received her Premium Yearling award.  She is a beautiful young mare that is sweet, sensible, and willing.  During the inspection, AHHA judges were impressed by this filly's presence and movement.

Tamara St. Clare
Liberty Farms

(Posted 2/5/08)

In the wake of the April 16th tragedy at Virgina Tech, Cira Giunti, a dressage trainer at Smooth Sailing Equestrian Center in Williamsburg, VA, wanted to help the healing process and memorialize victims Nicole White and Emily Hilscher. Shortly before the tragic events, Nicole had been a equine emphasis student in the Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, and Cira had ridden with her before her college years. Freshman Emily Hilscher had been a current equine student in the Department, and a member of the Virginia Tech Equestrian Team. Cira and her parents, Richard and Donna, generously volunteered to breed the outstanding mare Bella Mia to Virginia Tech's stallion Royal Appearance at their own cost, and donate the resultant foal back to the Equine Science program. Bella Mia is a five-year-old mare sired by top dressage star Bugatti Hilltop, and is out of a Contucci/Langata Express mare. She was bred by Hilltop Farm and has shown successfully at many shows, including Dressage at Devon.  Bella Mia is due to foal on May 20, 2008.

Rich Giunti

(Posted 2/5/08)

D'Artagnan is a coming 3 yr old this April.  He loves attention and will come to us even if he is far out in the pasture.  We taught him to lunge & brought him to small local shows as a yearling.  More shows, the bridle & saddle came in 2007.  October 14th, 2007, in a field bareback was the 1st time we rode him!!!  Crazy idea on our part & brief but he took it all in stride!!  My 13 yr old daughter is the rider and since then she has progressed from riding him on the lunge line to walking & trotting around the ring, over poles & between obstacles!!  The ring is not even finished or closed in yet so I think I can confidently say he is very easy to work with.  He will go back into baby boot camp in March & at least go to be schooled at shows this year.  We are raising him to be competitive in the hunter & equitation divisions.

I just sold his full brother, Dangerous Addiction, to a woman who will be showing him in Adult Equitation when he grows up.  He is an incredible jumper (we have him on video jumping a 4ft fence at 7 mos old when all we were trying to do was get him to walk, trot & canter!).  I also have his weanling half brother, Draw The Line, O/F an Oldenburg mare Confetti by Goldfuerst.  This Donarweiss colt is probably the dressage king! I took him to one breed show where he was Res Champion of ALL the Colts, Geldings & Stallions.  His dam has a magnificent trot like Donarweiss and "Dez" floats on air & his gaits are terrific!

Susan Berg

(Posted 1/29/08)

Both of my guys are exceptional young horses.  I went to look at just the one, and ended up bringing them both home with me.  They have above average gaits and wonderful.. I'll say again.. WONDERFUL temperaments and personality plus.

Watermark will be 4 in April and was started under saddle in the fall. Doing very, very well, hasn't taken a wrong step.  Werbenschone will be 3 in May and was shown quite a bit as a yearling. At Dressage at Lexington he won his yearling class, the German Oldenburg class (beating the GOV approved stallion DE LUXE), and went on to be Champion colts and geldings. This horse consistently has  breed scores in the upper seventies and had a best of 84% from one judge.

Melissa

(Posted 1/29/08)

Birgitta (by Bugatti Hilltop) is currently covered with a thick winter coat as she lives in Wisconsin. We will clip her and get her started under saddle this spring and will get loads of nice photos then. I can tell you that she is quite correct, though occasionally butt high with growth spurts. She is feminine and leggy and stands about 15.3 right now. She is low key in nature and I think will be easy to start (knock on wood). She looks like she has good bone, though I've not measured the diameter of her cannon bone. Her legs look solid and heavier than my other horses/ponies. She swaps leads easily in the pasture and enjoys sneaking over cavaletti if she is turned out in the arena on a bad cold/snow day. She is very nonchalant about new things, curious, but never alarmed. She bit the nose on an 8' blow up Santa the other day that I put in the arena for kicks !! No spook at all. She trailers well. My 90 pound daughter has sat on her a few times and Birgitta doesn't seem to notice. She accepts the saddle and girth without an issue and has worn a bit a few times without a problem. Gee, too much information eh? Anyway, I am pleased to report all these details about her temperament as that is part of the reason I chose Bugatti. Temperament is hugely important for amateur riders. I am glad that Birgitta seems to have inherited her Dad's quietness.

Joan Rich

(Posted 1/11/08)

I have recently purchased a gelding by your stallion Royal Prince.  I am almost embarrassed to say this but I have already started to ride him lightly.  My 20yr FEI gelding is injured and the 4th level horse I ride for someone else goes to Florida for the winter, I have been really itching to ride.  Rohan is by far the nicest baby I have ever started.  He tries to do everything you want and is just a very loving horse.  I trailer him from one farm to the other to hack and he is already a self loader, clips, baths and my farrier loves to trim him.  I am only hacking out and using him to push cows around right now.   I find that to be a very big confidence builder for him.  You go very slow (cows are all pregnant) but just having the power to move them makes him proud.   I rode him with my coach for the first time today indoors and she loves him already.  I am going to ride him 3 days a week very low key through the winter and start him in the spring seriously.  I hope to do the 4yr old test.

Rosemary Jones, DVM

(Posted 1/11/08)

I am very happy with both my Werbellin foals out of my Goldfisch mare. They are very different in both temperament, gaits and color. Wolford has more knee action and all three gaits are very good, he has the nicest disposition, and he is almost as tall as Wisteria already. Wisteria is a very brave/strong willed but very able to control herself, and I think she will be strong in the showring. 

Yvonn Coleman

(Posted 1/11/08)

We have two horses by Contucci: Celeste and Claudius.  Both were homebred here on the farm out of the same Hanoverian mare, Dicey, and are owned by John and Anne Foster.  They are ridden and show by myself, Arielle Ostrov.  Celeste competes at the Preliminary level in eventing, and Claudius competes at the Novice level.  Both are outstanding horses with great minds.  Celeste is a great pony club horse (as I'm only 18 years old), eventer, jumper, dressage horse, and terrific foxhunter.  We also did hunters, where she did quite well before she evented.  I'm planning to take Celeste to do her Elite mare test next year and we are also shooting for a 1-star!

Arielle Ostrov

(Posted 1/11/08)

I am writing to share with you my family's pride in owning Delight (by Donarweiss), she has a very loving temperament and enjoys following my girls around while they are playing out in our field and doing their barn chores.  She is very easy to work around and I think really likes being groomed by 3 kids all at once!  Her manners for such a young horse are remarkable, she is not pushy or shy.

From the moment she entered the arena at Equine Affaire - her flowing, uphill trot stole the show - every spectator sitting around me was watching her.

Patricia Shields

(Posted 12/20/07)

I just bought a son of Werbellin who was born out of a dark bay Thoroughbred mare in April 04. His name is Watermark and he is just wonderful. He is a blood bay and already 17.1 - all legs and show stopping beautiful. I live just outside of Atlanta, GA and Watermark is currently in training with Mary Bess Sigman, an advanced level event rider here in GA. He has had a saddle on his back 46 times now and is being very brave!  Depending on how he comes along, we will consider having him participate in the Young Event Horse program next fall as a 4 year old. He is very special and I was delighted to see pictures of his father and his talents. Just wanted to share the joy and let you know that talented offspring is out there (which of course you know already) and that we hope that Watermark will go all the way!

Mona Maerz

(Posted 12/13/07)

I have a Werbellin baby, Werbella Luna who is now 5 years old.  I was awarded the CVDA scholarship this year and Bella went to Huntington Farm and we trained with Deb Dean Smith for a month, and now we take biweekly lessons with Deb.  Bella is doing super and I am blessed to have such a nice horse, we receive lots of nice compliments on what a lovely mover she is and how good her temperament is in new situations.  She has turned out to be a beautiful mare.  Meanwhile, I am trying to improve my riding so I can keep up with her! 

She is a big mover with a huge canter – and of course would love to canter flat but is really starting to canter and look like a upper level dressage horse – actually moves a lot like Werbellin  - I can see it in the hind end – and her whole top line is really coming along. 

We won out walk trot last moth at recognized show with 65% - 1^st show. 

Wendy Pringle

(Posted 12/13/07)

(Posted 12/13/07)

I wanted to share this photo of D'Armani.  He is by Donarweiss GGF and out of an imported Welsh Section A dam.  He is registered with RPSI.

Vicki Felcan

(Posted 11/13/07)

I just wanted to let you know that Reverence (Royal Prince/Lathyrus) was a premium foal at the inspection at Gypsy Woods Farm this past Monday.  He was just 6 weeks this Wed. and he was a star!  He scored an 8.1 and the judge had him tied for the top colt after the first round and then ended up giving the other colt the championship. I thought he was great!!!  I will send pics when I get them onto my computer!  Thanks,

Suzy Coleman

(Posted 10/13/07)

I am the owner of a Riverman son, who was foaled in 1999.  While his accomplishments do not match many of the horses you show on your website, I would like you to know that this horse is indeed a saint.  He joyfully guides his less than confident 60 year old owner around Adult Modified courses, is truly a "seeing eye" horse when it comes to finding distances, always jumping in the best of form, is a pleasure work around, and has an incredible sense of humor.  He is outgoing, cooperative, and loves his job, and requires very little in the way of professional riding as he comes out of the barn sane and sensible whether he was ridden yesterday or a week ago.  This horse is truly a statement in regards to the influence of Riverman's effect on his progeny, I feel that while performance is important, a temperament like Bob's is worth more than anything.  He also carries the signature Riverman look, he is a late-darkening grey with that incredible face.  Thank you so much for being a part of my wonderful horse.

Lucy Tisdale

(Posted 10/13/07)

Congratulations to Kathryn McFadden.  Her Bugatti Hilltop x Passem Princess colt was Champion Colt at his inspeciton, with an 8.6 on conformation, 8.2 on movement, and an 8.4 overall.  Judges' comments included, "Wow!" and "Please don't geld him."

(Posted 10/13/07)

Congratulations to Roberta Gammill.  Her Riverman x Ozona colt received the Premium Award at his inspection.  Roberta commented that she was "very pleased with his attitude and how he showed."

(Posted 10/13/07)

RINGSIDE WITH HILLTOP STALLIONS' OFFSPRING

Had a gorgeous day yesterday at Beland. The weather could not have been any better - plus a nice breeze to keep the bugs away. Bianca ggf (by Bugatti Hilltop, out of SPS Highlight by Hohenstein) was a very good girl. In First Level test 4 we got a 65.789% for second place out of 8 entries of adult amateurs and juniors. First place was a 67 something. Always things to work on (leg yields!) but making progress each time out. This is our best score so far this year. Not bad for a five year old!

My sister Cary had a great day too on Carrera ggf (by Contucci). She got a 65% in second level test 4 (third place) and now just needs one more qualifying score for the year-end regional champonships. Thanks to Rachel Ehrlich of Greengate Farms for breeding our equine partners!

Sue Mercer

(Posted 6/20/08)

I just wanted to let you know that Bravo, by Bugatti, won 4th, 5th, and 8th,  at the Starr Vaughn Equestrian Center Hunter show (Baby greens) today.  This is truly amazing because until 3 weeks ago,  he was at pasture, after his trying 100 day test. It looks as though we'll be doing Hunters with Bravo.  He seems very talented for the hunters, and he truly loves it.  Plus,  Bravo is so dang pretty, he always gets attention. I'll keep you posted as we go along.  Hopefully,  I can get some pictures.

Chris Misita

(Posted 6/20/08)

Greetings! I wanted to give you all a quick update and forward some pictures , oh and of course brag a little   Rigoletto (bred by Hilltop Farm and shown by Michael Bragdell last season) and I have attended our first shows together.  At the end of April we eased into the ring at 1st level, we ended up winning our 1st level class with a 71% and earned the highest score at 1st level over all divisions for Saturday. 
 
Our second show proved to be a challenge when Melissa ended up injured and unable to ride so I was on my own.  It was an outside venue and the wind was howling but Rigoletto held it together and we won our 1st level test 4 class and ended up reserve high point at first level for Saturday.  On Sunday we did our 2nd level debut and we won our class with a 65% and ended up High point Champoin at 2nd level for Sunday.
 
The Contucci/Festrausch filly also attended the April show and won her training level class with a 75%! Highlights inlcuded (4) Nines throughout the test and an (8) on gaits.
 
I am having a blast!  I'll keep you posted on our progress,

Beth Springer

(Posted 6/20/08)

I just wanted to drop you a line and tell you that I saw Wirbelwind GF (by Werbellin) at the NEDA Robert Dover Spring Fling in Millis, MA.The rider, Kelly Orgettas was a demonstration rider during the event. What a beautiful gelding, he looks like a great amateur ride.

Anne Proctor

(Posted 6/20/08)

Jane sent Cavalier (by Cabaret) a nice note about his 4th level sucess last year.  If you would like to see some photos of his PSG appearances so far this year (onward and upward!) you can go to my trainer's web site: http://phfdressage.com/Adrienne.htm  Cavalier and I were AA High Point FEI winners last weekend at Poplar Place Farm in Georgia.  Planning to show the I-1 later this year.  He's a pretty special guy!

Adrienne Dickerson

(Posted 5/22/08)

I just have to be a proud mom and show you how much my little horse, Wynthrop (by Werbellin) has grown up!  I was down in Southern Pines this weekend watching Annie compete him Novice.  She did a wonderful job with him, and he looked like a little champ!  They put in a beautiful dressage test (he definitely stood out in the warm-up ring). Jumped around the x-country with no jumping faults....didn't bat an eye at the two water complexes, banks, and much more!  One rail in stadium due to his fetish for looking into the camera :)  Wish you could all see him go.  Thanks to Annie for doing such a wonderful job of training him this Winter.  She is going to continue with him this Summer and do some Area 1 events and hopefully I can take him to some dressage shows (in all my spare time! :)

Meredith Morray

(Posted 5/22/08)

Rebecca Splan

(Posted 5/22/08)

I just wanted to let you know that Ashley and  Celebrio (by Cabaret) had their first show together last week and it was a great success.  They competed in beginning jumper division and received three first places, a third and fourth.  They also won the division.  They were both beaming!  I believe that he was as proud as she was. I will send you some pictures soon. Thank you again for making this all come together,

Carol Dotson

(Posted 5/22/08)

Had a good outing at the new NEDA Spring showgrounds in Marshfield, MA. this past weekend. On Saturday we got a 65.000% for First Level Test 4 and a first place for the adult amateurs. On Sunday we got a 63.158% for the same test and a second place for AA's. I'm pretty sure Bianca (by Bugatti) was the youngest horse in the two classes. She was a trooper with all the high winds and tents looking as if they were going airborne. We are now qualified for the year end USDF Regional Championships at first level. Happy Spring - it is spring isn't it?

Susan Mercer

(Posted 5/22/08)

I was pleased to see that Royal Appearance's oldest son, Raconteur, debuted successfully at Advanced Level recently and was 6th in his division.  We are looking forward to his CCI*** debut next month!

Rebecca Splan

(Posted 4/3/08)

Celeste is such a star!!!  We went Preliminary at Full Gallop Farm Horse Trials, February 13 and went clean in stadium and on XC with only 4 time penalties (I missed two major turns that cost a lot of time because I walked my course in the dark, otherwise, we would have made time because we were going well over 520 mpm).  We got 3rd Place (out of 21 entrants) in Preliminary at Paradise Farm Horse Trials this past weekend, February 22-24. Paradise Farm has one of the most challenging XC courses in all of Area III. We finished on our dressage score of 38 penalties and went double clear on XC and in stadium. This was our 4th Preliminary together, and the first time that we made time on XC. We had closest to the optimum time on XC in our division with 10 seconds under.  We are now headed for Jumping Branch Farm Horse Trials, March 7-9, then Sporting Days Horse Trials, March 16, and then off to the Florida CCI 1-star in April.
 
Celeste is the 8 yr old homebred mare by Contucci that I have been keeping you updated about. I LOVE HER SO MUCH!!! She is a total dreamhorse. She is amazing, and she's only 8. We still have years of fun times together.

Arielle Ostrov

(Posted 3/5/08)

Just wanted to let you know I have a 6yo by Riverman who made his debut in 6 yo young jumpers in Palm Beach last week. He was 5th out of 26 in his first class and 4th in the second.  He has an amazing mind...looks like his dad. I also have 4yo...full brother....also a wonderful horse!!

Kelly Maloney

(Posted 3/508)

Celeste (by Contucci) went really well at Preliminary at Full Gallop Farm Horse Trials, Feb. 6, 2008. We had a 35 in dressage beating Olympians Kim Severson and Bonnie Mosser, and we went clean on XC (although we got 14 time penalties), and we had a rail down in stadium. We got a qualifying score for a CCI1* so we are very happy. We got some good pictures.
We also sold Claudius, Celeste's brother, who is also by Contucci. He is now on his way to Calgary, Canada.

Arielle Ostrov

(Posted 2/13/08)

I received a lovely email today about Weltissimo (by Werbellin), aka "Eeyore," from his owner Lisa: "Eeyore & I just got back from the "B" show in Kentucky, where we were the Non-Pro Champions. Hooray! Eeyore was frisky on warm-up day, but was great on his show days. Jumps, lead swaps, etc. At six years old, Eeyore looks mature now, and lots of people commented on how handsome he is and how well he's jumping."

Stephanie Severn,  Wisconsin

(Posted 2/13/08)

(Posted 2/11/08)

The NEDA Year End Awards were quite successful for owners of Hilltop offspring!

• Adam Cropper and Churchill (Contucci): Champion First Level Open (76.00%)
• Jackie Smith and River Run Roscoe (Riverman):
  • Res CH Open FEI Freestyle (73.125%) & 3^rd Place Open I1 (69.000%)
• Silene White and Prince of the Moon (Parabol): Res CH USEF AA Freestyle & 6^th Place PSG- AA
• Christine Shea and Dionysus (Donarweiss): DSHB Res CH Foals of 2007

(Posted 1/28/08)

Contina (Contucci - Cor Noir) won the coveted Jack Pine Circuit Award for training level for 2007.  The North Woods Dressage Association selects the award winners based on the average score using the top 80% of the scores earned during the show season.  Riders must have ridden at least six tests, two of which were the highest test of the level, and received scores from at least two shows and earned by at least two different judges.

Holly Sampson

(Posted 12/13/07)

Here is an update on our final event of the season.  It was the International Three Day Event at Galway Downs November 3 – 5, 2007. Rincon (aka River Court by Riverman) was in the CCI*. River Court’s 1* w/o steeplechase division had 53 entries—this is a HUGE group and our boy did super achieving at 43.6 on his FEI dressage test (which placed him in 3^rd), then going clean on the X (but he got 12 time penalties because he jumped the ** fence and had to double back and jump his * fence) and he finished up with 1 rail down in stadium which gave him a final placing of 9^th in this extremely competitive group with representatives from 8 countries and top horses and their riders from all over the United States and Canada!!

Matthias Schwarz did, as usual, an outstanding job strategizing and executing a superb series of rides—it’s wonderful to repeatedly see that he is a great partner for my boy River Court and to know that River Court really, really likes him as well as being happy to do whatever Matthias asks him to do—with great style and confidence—this is definitely a team sport—what a pair.

Linda Renne

(Posted 12/13/07)

I just thought that I would send you some new pictures of Reno (Riverman x Gala) from the 2007 American Gold Cup competition in Cleveland. He's been super and jumping better than ever this year...he has been back showing since April and moved up to the 1.40 and 1.45 meter Divisions in August and September. I will definitely have him back into the Grand Prix classes next year. I am taking him to compete in Wellington this winter along with my other Grand Prix horse. Since coming back to showing after his year off, he has been fantastic and hasn't touched a rail all summer.

Brian Shook

(Posted 12/13/07)

Valeda, a 2005 Riverman filly out of Aschenputtle/Galoubet scored 47, a premuim mare, and was Reserve Champion Mare at the AHHA Large site approval, Oct. 7, in Waterford Va. She scored and 8 on her trot, but would not canter for the Judges and got a 7 on her canter. Funny Tess her sister scored and 8 on the canter and would not trot and got a 7 for her trot. We were very pleased.  Now both Tess and Leda will be registered Holsteiner.  Leda was branded.  Looking foward to breeding her in the future.  Just thought you would like to know for Riverman's collection of outstanding offspring.

Ellen Alias

(Posted 12/13/07)

The stallion named Chester (by Cabaret) which was sold to Sissy Wicks/Kim Zindel was purchased in Dec. 2005 by my family as a Junior Hunter prospect for my daughter.  His name became Foolproof (barn name "Joker").  Kim competed him a limited amount in the pre-green's and first year greens. My daughter Katie Furches competed him sucessfully in the Small Junior Hunter 16-17yr. old division.  In less than 1 year she was Zone 2 high point, and qualified for Harrisburg and Washington where he was in the ribbons.  My daughter was not able to part with him, as you may remember he is a sensitive horse and they had an incredible bond.  He is currently leased to a junior rider at Jack Towell's barn in South Carolina helping another junior rider learn.  They have just renewed the lease for a second year but we look forward to his return around the time Katie graduates from college. We look forward to seeing Joker's face looking over the fence, and watching him as he becomes a teacher for the 3' riders as he ages.

Linda Furches
Foxtail Farm

(Posted 12/13/07)

usdf 2007 awards

The USDF Annual Awards Banquet and Convention has just concluded and Hilltop sired offspring garnered numerous awards.  Congratulations to all of the following owners, riders, and breeders!

Froelich (Festrausch - Landadel), owned/ridden by Dorie Forte, bred by Suellen Myers

• The Sunshine Sport Horse Association Perpetual Trophy - Materiale High Score

• USDF Horse of the Year - Four & Five Year Old Stallions/Geldings Materiale

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at First Level

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at First Level Adult Amateur

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at First Level Vintage Cup

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at FEI Five-Year Old

Churchill (Contucci x Gross Roma), owned/ridden by Adam Cropper, bred by Suellen Myers

• USDF Reserve Champion - First Level

Dionysus (Donarweiss GGF x Golden Letters), owned/bred by Christine Shea

• 4th Place - Weanling Colts/Geldings

• USDF All-Breeds (RPSI) - 1st Place at Weanling Colts/Geldings

Royal Reflection (Royal Prince x Damaris), owned by Ronnie Levine, bred by Ken & Roberta Falk

• USDF Horse of the Year - Two-Year Old Colts & Geldings

Rapidan (Riverman x Lexana), owned/bred by Raymond & Frances Selby

• 4th Place - Three Year Old Colts & Geldings

• USDF All-Breeds (AHHA) - 1st Place at Three Year Old Colts & Geldings

Chantucci (Contucci - Festrausch), owned by Beth Springer, ridden by Melissa Allen, bred by Stacie Coder

• 5th Place - Three Year Old Fillies Materiale

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 2nd Place at Three-Year Old Fillies

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at Three-Year Old Fillies Materiale

Calimar (Contucci x Vodka Gimlet), owned/ridden by Claire Darnell, bred by Zada Steidl

• 4th Place - First Level Freestyle

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at First Level Freestyle

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 2nd Place at FEI Five-Year Olds

Reatando El Viento (Riverman x Mercedes Bay), owned/ridden by Anna Burtell, bred by Michelle Demas

• 5th Place - First Level Freestyle

Cabana Boy (Contucci x Britiania), owned by Hilltop Farm, ridden by Chris Hickey, bred by Doug & Shannon Langer

• USDF Horse of the Year - FEI Five-Year Olds

Cayenne (Contucci x Luck of the Irish), owned by Gina Howey, ridden by Alice Howey, bred by Milestone Equine Center/Stacie Coder

• 2nd Place - Training Level Jr/Yr

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at Training Level Jr/Yr

Reminiscent (Riverman x Suna), owned/ridden by Sarah Baggette

• 1st Place - Third Level Adult Amateur

River Run Roscoe (Riverman x Daddy's Image xx), ridden by Jackie Smith, owned/bred by Beverly Dudley

• USDF All-Breeds (AHHA) - 2nd Place at Intermediare I

• USDF All-Breeds (AHHA) - 1st Place at Intermediare I Freestyle

Ultimate Dream (Riverman x Danika Blue), owned /bred by Robin Damone

• USDF All-Breeds (AHHA) - 2nd Place at Three-Year Old Fillies

Cavalier (Cabaret x Now Voyager xx), owned/ridden by Adrienne Dickerson, bred by Hilltop Farm

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 2nd Place at Fourth Level

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at Fourth Level Adult Amateur

Carnegie (Contucci x Vodka Gimlet), owned/ridden by Claire Darnell, bred by Zada Steidl

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at Prix St. Georges Jr/Yr

River Belle (Riverman x Nobell), owned/bred by Linda Gohn

• USDF All-Breeds (ISR/Old) - 1st Place at Yearling Fillies

(Posted 12/3/07)

Lazy J Sporthorses is pleased to announce that our Festrausch colt LJS Fantabulous won his ISR/Oldenburg NA 2 year old and under class at Dressage at Devon!  He not only moved and looked beautiful, but his manners were perfect.  I do believe this boy is a stallion prospect; if he were a filly I sure would want to keep him to eventually use in our breeding program, but since he is a colt, he is offered for sale.  He should make a lovely competition horse, with bling to spare.

Marie Emrey

(Posted 10/13/07)

I have a 4 year old filly by Reno that won a high point 71% (training level) at a rated show. It was her first time at a show.   My filly's name is Raquel and  I bought her when she was a month old she is now 4 years old.  The show that she got high point in was the Cascade Dressage show in Tule Lake California, with a score of 71.786% and she backed it with a 70.71%in training level 2 and 3.  In fact the judge liked her so much that she got up out of her chair and walked into the ring and said "I just have to know the breeding on that filly"  (at a rated show! I thought I was in trouble or something)   I get asked this question every time I take her some place new. I would like to do some jumping with her as well as she shows great form over fences. She is by Reno and out of a TB mare.  

Solbritt Hill

(Posted 10/13/07)

Just wanted to update you on Taylor and Paloma’s (Parabol) progress this summer.  They qualified for American Eventing Championships and finished 18^th of 75 horses on their dressage score.  We have one more event this year and I will let you know how they finish for the year in the standings.  Thanks and I’ll keep you posted.

Laura Reynolds

(Posted 10/13/07)

Just a not let you know how my Riverman babies  did at the USDFBC Championship show In Colorado.  Rio Hombre was Champion for 3 yr old and under colts and geldings for the show and my 2 year old filly V. Kimma Lark was Reserve Chamption for 3 year old and younger filly. Both the judges really liked them. 

Dan Rickert

(Posted 10/13/07)

Churchill (Contucci), bred by Suellen Myers, owned/trained by Adam Cropper, has been undefeated all season at First Level and has received a High Score Award at every show he's attended.  Congratulations Adam!

(Posted 10/13/07)

I recently purchased Coral, a 2007 filly by Contucci out of EM Dame by Domingo.  Coral was bred by Diane Isenhour of Crescent Farm in Hillsborough, NC.  I wanted to let you know how well Coral did at the NCDCTA Sport Horse Breeding Show this Sept. 3 in Raleigh, NC.  Coral won her Fillies of 2007 class with an 81 percent! She then went on to win Reserve Champion of the young fillies class.  She then took Reserve Champion of Young Horses and topped it all off to be Reserve Champion of the whole show!  Through out the day, she was wonderful to work with, energetic but very sensible.  I was her handler for all the classes and I was thrilled to realize what a cooperative, friendly and smart horse she is, even at this young age. 

Melissa Chiti

While visiting Hilltop Farms web site, I saw your request for news about you stallion’s progeny.  I own Royal Reflection (USDF# 1048853).  This 2 year old gelding by Royal Prince was bred and raised by Roberta and Ken Falk of Highfields Farm out of their mare, EM Damaris.  He has been well received in some limited showing this summer, including 1^st place 2yr old colt/geldings VADA/VOVA Summer Breed II, 1^st place 2 yr old colt/gelding Dressage at Lexington (81.8%), 1^st place American Havoverian Society DAL (80.1%).  As of last week, Royal Reflection was on top of the Preliminary USDF HOY standings in both of his categories. In addition to his lovely conformation and gaits, he has a wonderful disposition.  This is my first experience in the Sport Horse Breeding world and it has been  very exciting in addition to lots of fun. We are planning on going to Dressage at Devon and hope to see the Hilltop people there. 

Ronnie Levine

    Becky Boardman

I wanted to share some pics of Presto (Nike) at the KY Horse Show last week. As you see he is a big boy!! He is 17.1 hands and fits a tall rider like Deloise and myself perfectly!! This was a huge show with the "who's who" in the hunter world coming from the East Coast and West Coast. Everyone was there. It was a great show. Because temps were in the 100 degree mark all week and it was hot!!! The show excused jackets and you could either wear a polo shirt or show shirt.
 
I took these pics of him on the flat since my jumping pics are not the best. He was shown in the Pre-Green Hunter 3ft division sec. B with Deloise Noble-Strong. He was a little distracted that day but got better as the week went on!! I showed him on Sunday in the Adults and he was fantastic!! Nike looks so fancy with his mane braided!! What presence!!
 
Just like all the Parabol offspring, he loves to jump and will take you to the jump. You just sit and enjoy the ride. He is automatic with changes and very well schooled on the flat.
 
He will move up to the 2nd year Pre-Green next year at 3'3ft. and I will continue with him in the Adults for mileage and work on qualifying for the indoor shows. He will continue under Deloise in the Professional divisions and myself. She has done an excellent job riding him! I can't thank her enough!! I look forward in showing with her!!!

                                           Kristen McNamara

Felice (Festrausch x Prima Donna), bred by Martha Caldwell, owned by Summit Sporthorses, LTD was the only Premium Mare at her ISR/Oldenburg Inspection.  She scored 105 pts overall.  She will be bred to Popeye in 2008.  Congratulations Ilona!

(Posted 8/29/07)

Touched By an Angel (Riverman x Aschenputtle) "Tess", bred by Hilltop Farm, owned, trained, ridden, and groomed by Katie Allias, at Kate's first class at an A-rated show, won the International Jumper Futurity Midwest Reserve Championship in the Most Grand Prix Potential category. I am so proud of them.  Tess was a dream.

Ellen Allias

(Posted 8/13/07)

Unico (Negro x Kleora) was just shown at the Dressage by the Bay show in Traverse City, MI by a very talented junior rider, Anna Marek.  It was Unico's second show (first in April in Wellington), and he won all 4 of his classes.  Unico and Anna scored a very impressive 77% in Training 4 (with esteemed judge Jeanne McDonald), including a 9 on the stretching circle, and judge told Anna after test she almost had a 10! Then the duo went on to score 73% in First Level 4, followed by 2 more wins in both Training 4 and First Level 4.  We are so proud of "Nico," and are very excited for the Regional Championships in September.

Amy Awerbuch

(Posted 8/13/07)

River Belle: Wanted to let you know that River Belle (Riverman), won her 2006 filly class, was champion filly, reserve champion, and won her Oldenburg class.  This girl is on a role!

Linda Gohn

(Posted 7/24/07)

Rhett WF: (Royal Prince x SPS Waleska) was just named Top Colt at his AHS Inspection at Oakwood Farm for owner Linda Woltz.  The judges particularly commented on his excellent walk.

(Posted 7/24/07)

Cobalt & Coral:  We took our yearling, Cobalt (Contucci), to the show in Lexington.  He was so good to take such a long trip and be in all the excitement of a big show.  He won his yearling class with an 80.3%.  He did his best in the Championship, but you know it's hard for the yearlings at their stage of growth to compete against the other ages.  He was 3rd.  Cobalt helped his brother win the Produce of Dam class against all older horses.  He took a 2nd in the ISR/Oldenburg class, his brother was 3rd.  It was at the end of the day and he was getting tired and a little grumpy and River Belle beat him.  But, since she was the champion young horse we were very happy with our 2nd place.  Our next time out will be to the breed show in Raleigh.  It's closer to home, so he should be fresh and ready.  That same weekend we took our Contucci filly, Coral, to the Hanoverian inspection.  The inspectors had really nice things to says about her and thought she was excellent quality.

Diane Isenhour

(Posted 7/2307)

Hoppy: (Royal Prince x Godiva) went to the Kasson Ridge breed show this past weekend and won the fillies of 2007 class as well as the filly championship class. I was really afraid she would be frightened of being in the ring with a big group of older horses for the championship class, but she was really good and bounced along like a little pro. I believe she is now qualified for the regional breeders championship held in NY in September.

Kyle McIver

(Posted 7/16/07)

We had a fabulous time at Morven Park and of course I'm really proud.  We brought Rivendale (Riverman/Keepureyesonme) and Le Beau Danseur Noir (Cor Noir/JeSuis Dansuese).

Wednesday

• Beau - Colts/Geldings 2004 – 4^th Place – Score 77.7

• Rivendale – Fillies 2004 – 4^th

• Oldenburg NA – Beau 6^th – 73.6

Thursday

• Beau – Colts