I grew up around Quarter horses as a youth
and I spent many years showing dogs. My
introduction to minis started subtly with my
connection to Pam Brown, then I met Kristy
Pruitt, Rich Erickson and Jacob Elliott. They
introduced me to Casey Campbell and the
Wingate Training Center team. At that moment I didn’t realize I was starting a new
journey, one that would bring many new,
wonderful people into my life. I’ve met
some people who are so positive and caring,
who will watch out for me and give me extra
strength I didn’t even know I had. These
people have become dear friends and new
family members, who I now cherish.
T
I have always loved horses and was raised
around them growing up. I always felt connected with any horse I worked with and I’ve
love many of them. Or at least I thought I
did, until the day I met Wingates Infamous
Mi (aka Famous). There is something extraordinary about this horse. As my physical condition declined and it became a little
harder to move around the arena, it seemed
all of a sudden Famous and I really clicked!
During a show while suffering with my illness, Famous looked me right in the eye as
if looking through to my soul. He made me
feel safe! It was if he knew things were getting harder for me and wanted me to know
he would take care of me. He started watching me very carefully trying to match my
pace when we walked. He is always attentive
and will set up and plant his feet for me and
not move. I know this probably does not
make sense but he seems so in tune with me.
He is like no other horse I have ever had or
been around. Famous is truly a champion
and I am so glad he is letting me be a part of
this journey. I have never had a horse make
me feel so safe and loved.
20 Miniature Horse World
Au g u s t / S e p t e m b e r 2 0 16
o say he’s taken the show ring by storm would be an
understatement. Wingates Infamous Mi’s show record in 2016
boasts only Grands and Supremes. In four shows, under seventeen
judges, he’s been unanimously first both in Amateur and in Open.
His owners are not surprised. This son of the Oak Bay Mi Amigo was
spectacular from birth but this year the stars have aligned for him to
shine for a special reason. Leigh Murray and Patti Funakoshi co-own
the stunning black stallion who is also leading the honor roll in points
for Amateur Senior Stallions, Level 1 (over 30-34). But perhaps what you
don’t know about amateur showman Patti is her internal struggle. You
might first notice her friendly, happy demeanor - her positive vibe, as it
were. When the team of Patti and Famous enter the arena trainer Casey
Campbell says they illuminate the ring. Casey says, “Patti practically
exudes positivity when she’s with her horse. Some of my other clients
were a bit jealous of her achievements until they got to know her. Now
they are so happy for her success.” Casey and sister, Kelly Campbell
have become Patti’s biggest fans, going so far as to emblazon a shared
tattoo to show their support for her.
The tattoo with
so much meaning
and love!!
Designed by Kelly Campbell.