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| Tali at Chantilly about to head to Saumur CCI*** 2014 |
This is a post I never, in a million,
years envisioned writing; however, here I am typing away.
A few weeks back Jess and I met with a
good friend and supporter to get some advice about a lot of raw land
available for sale just behind the farm which we currently rent.
Without much in the way of financial resources the inexpensive
acreage looked appealing on the surface. That evening, after checking
out the land, we started looking into comparable property in the area
to better evaluate our options and the prospects of development.
While Jess and I had searched online before, we were shocked to find
what appears to be perfect farm. The question then becomes how in the
world could we afford it!
Two days later I received a call from
Liz Millikin on behalf of Joanne Bridgman (both Agents) asking whether I'd ever
consider parting with Tali. My initial thought, was not a chance.
After discussing with Jess, Larry and Amelia and sleeping on it, I decided if it meant
we could buy the farm I'd have to consider it. A week or so later
Nick Gauntlett arrived at our place in Raleigh.
I'm as attached to him as much as I've
ever been to a horse. He has been with me now for 6 years from his very first event to Saumur this spring. The thought of selling him has literally woke
me up multiple times during the past few weeks. However, after
speaking to a number of people I respect both in and out of the horse
world, I'm confident this is the right decision. Certainly doesn't
make it an easy one!
I'm comforted by the fact that after
getting to know Nick, his riding style and care of his horses I know
Tali will have a great future. I will always be his biggest fan and
hope nothing but the best for the two of them. I'll be rooting for
them at Rio! I would also like to again thank Larry and Amelia Ross for their continued support, I certainly wouldn't be here without them.
-Doug
**Updated 6:45 PM**
Larry and Amelia wanted me to include the following and I was more than happy to oblige. I want to reiterate that I can't thank them enough for their advice and support throughout the years.
“Our support of Doug and the team’s quest for Olympic gold is long term. If this helps Doug finance a permanent base, so he can concentrate on building a string of Olympic contenders, he made a very wise decision. Further, this is the second Olympic contender Doug trained. We are confident that owning his facility, rather than renting where conditions may change, will enhance his ability to assemble and train enough top horses to take the worry out of relying on just one mount.”
**Updated 6:45 PM**
Larry and Amelia wanted me to include the following and I was more than happy to oblige. I want to reiterate that I can't thank them enough for their advice and support throughout the years.
“Our support of Doug and the team’s quest for Olympic gold is long term. If this helps Doug finance a permanent base, so he can concentrate on building a string of Olympic contenders, he made a very wise decision. Further, this is the second Olympic contender Doug trained. We are confident that owning his facility, rather than renting where conditions may change, will enhance his ability to assemble and train enough top horses to take the worry out of relying on just one mount.”
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| Tali at the Fork CIC*** - Photo by Samantha Clark via Eventing Nation |
