In the horse show world, the superstars of the sport tend to be jumpers or dressage horses. So it may come as a surprise to learn that the horse with the biggest fan club is super hunter Brunello.
As with many things, Brunello is simply exceptional. The 18-year-old Hanoverian owned by Camden’s Liza Boyd along with Janet Peterson, claimed his third consecutive victory in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in 2015 and was named the USEF National Horse of the Year, for the second time, as well as Show Hunter of the Year by The Chronicle of the Horse.
Boyd, who is Brunello’s rider, claimed the USEF Emerson Burr Trophy for the third time as well, thanks to Brunello. So, it is only fitting that Brunello takes his place among the pantheon of horses that have graced Breyer’s stable of horse heroes.
Breyer is pleased to announce that it will introduce its new Brunello portrait model this summer, in partnership with Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), on Friday, June 10, as a highlight of the Tryon Spring 8 FEI CSI 5*(June 8-12).Breyer Brunello models will be available for purchase at Tryon Tack beginning Friday, June 10. Only 400 models will be available for the launch and each model will come with a special mini Breyer TIEC blanket only available at this show and while supplies last. Purchases limited to 2 models per person.
The weekend will kick off with a special presentation of the first Brunello portrait models to be created for Brunello’s owners, Boyd and Peterson, and longtime groom Alberto Ramirez on Friday evening, June 10 during the Hunter Derby under the lights in the George Morris Arena at TIEC. Boyd and Brunello are preparing to compete in the Hunter Derby, offering fans and spectators a chance to see this historic pair live in competition.
On Saturday, June 11, from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m., Breyer will host free Stablemates painting activities, demonstrations by model horse hobby artists including sculptor Morgen Kilbourn, equine color genetics expert Lesli Kathman, as well as fun model horse showing with Michelle Masters. Breyer’s mascot, Pal, will visit and there will be raffles and contests for prizes. Event activities will be held in the Special Pavilion tent overlooking the George Morris Arena.
Boyd will be available for autographs (limited to 200) from 4 p.m. until 5 p.m. and Brunello will make an appearance at 5 p.m. for photographs.
When asked what makes Brunello so special, Boyd said, “Brunello: B: Brave to gallop under the lights. R: Rideable, to turn oh-so-tight; U: Unique, not your typical hunter type; N: Naughty, in his stall, he will bite; E: Ego, he thinks he’s always right; L: Longevity, at 18 he’s still jumping with height; L: Lexington, three times he has had a magical derby night and, O: Owl, for his wisdom and insight.”
Tryon International Equestrian Center is a state-of-the-art equestrian facility located in Mill Spring, N.C. The venue offers competitors access to an array of equestrian sports including hunter/jumper, dressage and eventing competitions throughout the year. The facility, which officially opened in 2014, began its inaugural year for FEI competition in 2015. This year, TIEC is set to host two CSI 5* competitions, as well as the prestigious Nutrena USEA American Eventing Championships in early September, as well as two FEI CDI 3* competitions for dressage riders.
Tryon Riding and Hunt Club (TRHC), an important supporter of the equestrian community in the Western Carolinas, sparked the discussion regarding the creation of a Brunello Breyer model, as co-owner Janet Peterson is a longtime member of the organization. A social media campaign initiated by TRHC, has been tremendously influential, recognizing and honoring the remarkable career accolades of Boyd and Brunello.
“Having a Breyer model of Brunello to celebrate his accomplishments is something very special. He is a wonderful horse and is incredibly well loved by all of those involved with him, including myself, Liza Boyd, and her father, Jack Towell,” said Peterson. “I’m very much looking forward to this replica of him, as well as the ceremony that is planned for June 10th. He has a large fan base and following in the Carolinas and I hope that everyone will join us for the festivities to honor his achievements.”
