THIS and THAT!
By MRS. MIRIAM MERRIS Humboldt. Iowa
Winter has come to the Midwest area bringing its sleet, snow, ice, biting winds and zero temperatures. Since it is impractical for man and beast to work under these conditions, most activity in the horse-world is at a stand-still.
It is most advantageous for a stable establishment to be able to carry on a year-round program. Not only is it a financial asset, but the training routine may be kept intact. Horses are kept in their stride and shape up better for the beginning of the spring shows.
Experience and careful planning are essential for such an operation. An enclosed area is an absolute must. The arena should be large enough for necessary gait speeds and maneuverability, yet compact enough to provide some warmth
A most ingenuous design for an all season training establishment is owned and operated by Dick Wallen of Sioux City, Iowa. Mr. Wallen is well known in the equine field as an exhibitor, trainer and a teacher of equitation. He is an accredited judge of Tennessee Walker, 3 gaited, 5 gaited and equitation classes. The Wallen Stables are located at the Northwest edge of Sioux City— protected by the rolling hills that surround them.
The stable construction consists of four rows of box stalls with twelve-foot alleys between each row. The center alley is used for grooming and saddling with four cross-tie stations. The roof and outside walls in the front and back have been extended twelve feet beyond the end box stalls of each row, to provide a runway. These extensions and between the two outside rows of stalls have been covered with six inches of sawdust— thus making a complete covered training circle. Hay and grain storage space is provided in overhead area. No heat is needed as the body heat of the stabled animals keeps the entire barn about the proper temperature for work-outs. Also in the enclosure is an automatic cooler, isolation stalls, large tack room and equipment storage. So, let the temperature drop to zero, the wind blow and the snow pile up ■— work in training horses and riders goes on. Even the family cow is perfectly at home here and content to live with this stable of registered horse flesh.
Dick Wallens’ famous PEACOCK ALLEN is many times a trophy and blue winner. He won the 1964 Iowa State Fair Walking Horse Stake, was Reserve Champion at the Minnesota Fair and finished the past season going strong. The unusual markings of this roan and white six-year old gelding and his bold flashy style catches the eye of all when he is on show. He is ALLEN-bred all the way, with conformation, true gaits and speed needed for those blues.
Also in training under Mr. Wallens’ capable hands is PEACOCK’ S SHADOW, owned by Dr. Milanberg of Canton, South Dakota. This three year old is a full brother of PEACOCK ALLEN and shows real promise. He will be in the ring this coming season.
Equitation lessons available include all age groups. These are conducted privately or in classes. Assisting Dick is Mrs. Pat Reed. Mr Wallen is an able teacher, giving attention to the most minute detail and striving for performance perfection in both rider and mount It has been said that in Equitation competition one can pick out a‘ Wallen-trained’ rider. There are many exhibitors who are excellent riders themselves but are unable to transmit this knowledge to a student. To be able to do so is a rare talent. Dick Wallen is such an instructor with the knowledge of personal experience for a guide.
The name of Wallen has long been outstanding in the equine training profession. Dick Wallens father raised and trained many horses for show and also trick horses for circus acts. So Dick was raised in the trainers field. His children are now beginning to make careers of their own in the profession. The oldest daughter, Linda, experienced in the show ring, is now teaching equitation at Stevens College in Missouri. Randy, the oldest boy, won the Championship equitation class at the International in Chioago. in 1964, and was up on PEACOCK ALLEN to win in Minnesota. Randy has many other blues to his credit. John is starting, exhibiting at the Iowa State Fair Horse Show competition. The younger children are riding well and have a sound working background to aid them.
Mrs. Wallens’ WILEYS MERRY a MERRY GO BOY mare, will go in training this spring. Outstanding bloodlines should make this mare an excellent prospect for the winners circle.
Besides Tennessee Walkers, Dick trains and exhibits 3 gaited, 5 gaited and fine harness classes.
The Wallens’ are friendly people— proud of their establishment and their accomplishments. This is truly a family enterprise that is going strong and foresees an unlimited future. Visitors are cordially received. A trip to the Dick Wallen Stables is an interesting and enlightening experience.
HORSES FOR SALE
PLEASURE HORSES, BROOD MARES & COLTS Mares in foal to Midnight Sun, Sun ' s Delight, and Ebony Masterpiece. Colts by Midnight Sun.
FACTORY BUILT, 2 HORSE TRAILER Special bargain in this like-new demonstrator
HOLLY TREE FARM Visitors Welcome FRED M. PHILLIPS 217 East Holland, Shelbyville, Tennessee Business 684-7778 Residence 684-5485
70 VOICE of The Tennessee Walking Horse