Draft Fest ‘08

My late husband, Curt, and my first Clydesdale was a yearling filly, Belleau WS Helen (Nellie) purchased in Paso Robles at the Farm Equipment, Mule and Draft Horse sale in early 1998. We went to the sale to 'look around' at the mules and farm equipment. The first thing we noticed was Budweiser and the five Clydesdales they brought to the sale.  We especially took notice of one yearling filly. We just couldn't resist this high headed beauty when she entered the sale ring strutting her stuff, stompin' with attitude and feather flying. Next thing we knew we had to figure out a way to get her home!

We never regretted our impulse buy; there was no buyer's remorse. We quickly grew to love and respect this noble breed and soon started shopping for more. Tragically in 2002 we lost Nellie and her unborn foal during a traumatic attempt to deliver what would have been her first foal. I will never forget her as she was a truly special horse that touched our lives deeply. I will always be grateful to her for leading us down a path to this magnificent breed that is now such a treasured part of my life. 

I now have a small, select ‘herd of Clydesdales’ including broodmares, geldings, stallions and foals – so the herd continues to grow.  My newest mare, Kitchenview Try Again Hannah, was Grand Champion at the Ventura County Fair, the Draft Horse Classic (also Supreme Champion) and the Pomona Fair.  Both Hannah and my adored gelding Mike qualified All-American for 2006. 

I recently purchased a superb stallion, to breed my mares as well as select outside mares in 2007.  This stallion, Coigjack Jack of Hearts, was purchased from Steve and Beth Gregg of Ontario, Canada.  “Jack” had an outstanding show season this year as a two year old, qualifying for both All-American and All-Canadian.  I also have a home-bred colt, with conformation, style and bloodlines to burn-Laurelvale’s First Milestone “Miles” (Greenleaf Lady Shania X Greenleaf Reflection), who is everything we hoped for and more!  He will be standing at stud next year!

I enjoy sharing my Clydesdales with others at parades, historical events, various demonstrations and draft horse shows, as well as offer them for hire at weddings and events requesting carriage or wagon rides.

I continue to be dedicated to the development of young drivers, and have three juniors (Kyle Zimmerman, David Benninghoven and Serena “Stubbs” Houghton) currently helping out with the horses and winning ribbons at the shows.  

My goal is to continue to own, breed, compete and share with others this beautiful, magnificent, majestic breed of horses. I have been extremely selective in choosing my mares and breeding stallions.  I plan to show them in halter & driving classes as well as breed them. They have not only exceptional pedigrees but conformation, feather and disposition to match.

I am sincerely grateful to those who help and support my efforts, including, but not limited to: my dear friend, partner and driver Keith Andrade, my close friend and mentor Juan Erquiaga (and his wife Carol); my dear friend - Beverly Zangrillo; my junior drivers/general swampers and their families, Tom Giannini who has helped us since the beginning; my farrier and friend Kevin Pelonero (and his wife Tami); and my treasured friend – Cheryl Basin. Every year more ‘friends’ get involved with the Clydesdales.  Welcome!  I could not continue this endeavor without everyone’s assistance. Thanks!  

Visitors are always welcome at the ranch, but it is always best that you contact us prior to your visit and follow driving directions carefully.