St. James Farm

Recently, IDCTA had the opportunity to volunteer at the Homecoming Celebration for St. James Farm, hosted by the DuPage County Forest Preserve. As a group, IDCTA was well represented with demonstrations of various disciplines which helped educate the general public with regard to horses, namely; breeds, disciplines, care, safety, and so much more. Many IDCTA members graciously volunteered their time and energy to assist the forest preserve in making this a successful and safe day for everyone to enjoy.
Tantamount to a ringleader in a circus – Cindy Zitko’s organization and assistance throughout the day kept everything running smoothly. Becky Bowen and Danielle Young spent the entire morning assisting with check-in and anywhere else assistance was required. Tammy Carlo supported the barn, managing all the riders and the stable, picking stalls, filling water buckets, and holding fussy horses. Dawn Morgenstern was advertising and answering questions regarding membership at the IDCTA table, even though Christopher, her son, went missing in action for archery and fishing. Mairi Thennes was afternoon relief for Debbie Garris.
Rider participation included cross-country jumping demonstrations from Cindy Zitko on Dickens, Jenna Brown on Grace, Ellie Master on Bobby and Deanna Hertrich on Boo. Rosie Julian-Simoes demonstrated a Third Level Freestyle on her mare Marishka, and a First Level Freestyle on Major, and drew large crowds which enjoyed watching horses “dance” to the music. Julie Julian on Aristole demonstrated FEI dressage level movements such as tempi changes, piaffe, and passage on her gelding Aristotle while Tammy Carlo and Mandy Solner explained to bystanders exactly what they were watching. Mandy Solner performed on her mare Serlait throughout the day, delighting the crowds with her tricks – waving hello, the Spanish Walk, and bowing. Julie Mehling brought out Duggar, her Icelandic Pony, to perform the tolt.


Many others volunteered their time and talents to make this day a success – Dan Starck built a beautiful cross-country jump dedicated to St. James farm, Wayne DuPage Hunt Pony Club and St. James Pony Club both provided great entertainment to crowds as they competed with multiple games and a jumping clinic throughout the day. Trail Riders of DuPage offered pictures on a pony and riding demonstrations in the grass pasture. Peter Veit was out horse camping; Kevin Nelson was the vet on call and was answering questions from the public; and Mike Born provided a demonstration on his farrier services. There were so much more as well – live bands, food, hayrides – this was truly an event to behold!

The IDCTA would sincerely like to thank all of the volunteers who gave their time and talents to make this day such a success. Without volunteers, we would not be able to represent our club so well and we hope that IDCTA members will become involved in the return of this dynamic facility in the future.
Trails are now open to the public on the weekends only and even though there are not a lot of miles, it is worth seeing the property; but don’t forget to respect the property. Check out the St. James Farm website at www.dupageforest.com for more info about the history of this phenomenal property and plans for the future.

(all photos provided courtesy and copyright of Tammy Carlo)