Tributes
Humans are not the only professors in the Equine program at Centenary. Each horse is viewed as a potential learning experience and valued by the students that care for them. This area is a memorial to the special horses that have touched many people and have moved onto greener pastures beyond Centenary's Equine Center.
Tigger – An Instructor for Life
- Andrea Davey playing “horse whisperer” with Tigger.
"With much caution, the new addition to Centenary College, Tigger, walked off the trailer ramp. He appeared a little unsure and nervous of everything at first, which was similar to my first day at Centenary. It didn’t take Tigger long to become comfortable and eventually become a favorite ride of many students. The scope of his talents was extensive. He was known for completing a task with perfection and on the first attempt. Most students would agree that Tigger’s exceptional ability instilled confidence in the riders by providing an educational and enjoyable ride.
"During my first year at Centenary College, I participated in the first clinic of my life. I was quite apprehensive until I learned that I was riding Tigger. As the jumps were raised higher and higher my nerves grew greater and greater. Tigger never let me feel or think for a second that there was anything we couldn't get through together. This small horse could sail over the 3'3” oxer with his eyes shut because he was that good. I’m not sure that he realized that my eyes were shut also, out of shear fear.
"I was responsible for Tigger’s care for many semesters at Centenary College. In some ways, I felt like Tigger chose me. He taught me a great deal about horsemanship and myself. When it came time for clipping, Tigger was not a fan. He would try anything and everything to avoid having his ears clipped. And yet we both learned to tolerate each other and complete the task. Prior to my interactions with Tigger, I would have been extremely frustrated with horses that were difficult to handle. He taught me patience, persistence, and compassion. Since then, I have never encountered another horse that I haven’t been able to work with. For that I have Tigger to thank.
"Tigger was retired from Centenary College in 2008 and moved to a private farm in NJ, where he plays with his pasture-mate and enjoys trail rides with his new owner. While retired, Tigger continues to impress, educate, and entertain those who he encounters. He provides great joy to his current family and even therapy to geriatric family members who beam with joy every time they see him. In 2009, he happily marched in the Blairstown Memorial Day Parade
"A person can never underestimate the educational opportunity that an animal can provide, and Tigger is no exception. He touched many lives at Centenary College and continues to do so, even in his twilight years."
--Andrea Davey (’06)
Combrio - A Special Thank You to a Deserved Professor
"Give a horse what he needs and he’ll give you his heart in return."~Gerald Raferty
The horses of the Centenary College Equestrian Center are the very heart of the College’s prestigious program. Because the horses are such a vital part of what Centenary College stands for, it’s always hard for the staff and students to accept the retirement of a legend and a teacher extraordinaire. On November 1, 2008 Combrio bid a bitter-sweet farewell by cashing in his 401K and assuming the well deserved lifestyle of retirement.
Eleven years previously, Combrio arrived at Centenary a former combined driving horse. Although he had some training in the hunter ring, he had not been exposed the brightly colored jumper fences. But the Dutch Warmblood gelding faced each new challenge with an eager determination and so much heart; he soon became a campus favorite. Every student who had the opportunity to ride him quoted: “Trust Yoda! Just use the force!!” And each professor agreed that this was one horse who could do no wrong. It didn’t take long for Combrio to become a coveted lesson horse, first pick for the Nationals teams, the steady rock for ANRC, and a desired draw at each IHSA show. Many students soon felt that if you weren’t aboard Combrio you were most likely battling for second place.
In 2003 Combrio met a unique student, a scared timid freshman who had spent the previous seven years of her riding career on the quarter horse show circuit. There she stood in a ring of brightly colored fences feeling completely out of her element. Kendra Merrigan knew she had a long road ahead of her and she would be reliant upon seasoned instructors such as Combrio. Combrio educated Ms. Merrigan in the world of hunter/jumpers while simultaneously developing a personal and professional bond. When Kendra’s four years came to an end she said a teary good bye to an old friend and hoped for the day that Combrio might leave Centenary College to retire to her personal farm.
"It has been two months since Combrio arrived at my farm in Pennsylvania. He spends his days stretching his legs in his very own pasture and his nights nestled in a heated barn in his own 12x12 box stall. And for the first time in eleven years ‘Beans,’ as he is affectionately called, is sporting a glowing thick winter coat! Combrio has settled into his new life with no hesitations. It is a true honor to be able to give back to the horse that has given so much of himself to others. Combrio will live out the rest of his days on my family farm where he greets each day with a kiss on the forehead and stepping out into that green pasture knowing, he has earned this…"
--Kendra Merrigan (’07)
- Kendra Merrigan riding Combrio
Puma - Special kind of Love
- ~In Loving Memory of Puma a.k.a. Puma Doos~
In Loving Memory of Puma a.k.a. Puma Doos
"A horse gallops with its lungs, perseveres with its heart, and wins with its character."-Tessio
"Puma was a horse that always made somebody laugh or smile. Usually it was because he was running away with Michelle, just because he could, and knew he would still get a treat afterwards. Most of the time you would catch yourself smiling because Michelle would be riding Puma and both of them would have a twinkle in their eye. They shared a special kind of love that can only take place between a girl and a horse. Puma was one of Centenary’s greatest horses. He taught so many kids how to ride, and for that we all should be thankful. Whether he taught someone how to jump a jump, do a lead change, or about confidence he has left a rather impressionable hoof print in our barn aisle. He was another one of our great teachers that lived a long, happy, peppermint-filled life. He will always be remembered as the furball he was, always with his ears pricked forward, and always mooching for a treat. He was deeply loved by many and he touched all of our lives but he touched one life significantly, and he will always still be loved and thought about. We thank you Puma for teaching us, and for being such a big part of Centenary!"
--Jessica Anselmo (’09)
Saying Goodbye to a Faithful Friend
by Michelle Rizzolo (’09)
"I will never forget when I first saw Puma, who we later affectionately called 'Doos.' He looked at me with his huge eyes and pony face that didn’t match his big furry body but somehow seemed perfect. He would lick you face for days if you let him and his hair was like mine, wild and untamable, but so was his spirit. From that moment I was hooked and could hardly spend a day away from him. He taught me how to ride with confidence and showed me that I could do more than I thought possible. He picked me up when I was down and showed me how to love.
"On Friday December 19th, 2008, a beautiful snowy day, we said goodbye to Puma. He was 19 years old and had given his all to our program as well as to the students. He was personally the best friend I could have hoped for. He had been able to bounce back from so much; from bone bruises, to suspensory ligament injuries, each time we would work together to get him back in action. This time it just wasn't the case because he had torn his check ligament and many adhesions had developed, making it very painful for him to even lock his knee. That crazy, carefree guy who loved to be outside and most had seen with me in the field cantering wildly and loving life, would not be able to do so again. He wouldn’t even be able to get turned outside without hurting himself further. I came to the conclusion that it wouldn't be right to keep such an angel here just because I would miss him.
"So on that morning, I fed him more than a horse should eat in a week, kissed his face, and he licked mine, like he always did. I walked my very furry soulmate into the snow and put him to rest. My hope is that everyone can find one 'guy' that can teach you compassion, hard work, and how to NEVER give up like he did for me. Even though I couldn’t bring him home with me and have our happily ever after, I will bring him home in my heart, as I hope you all will. He went down fighting like a true champ and no one could ask for a better best friend. You will be forever missed my love."
Eden Roc-Remembering a Fallen Teacher, and Beloved Friend.
December 15, 2006 - Eden Roc, affectionately known as “Eden P. Roc”, “E”, and “Rock Star”, a cornerstone of Centenary College’s Equine Program, was euthanized on Saturday, December 9, 2006, due to complications of Shivers. The disease is a progressive neurological condition and no known cure has been found at this time. It is characterized by the periodic, involuntary spasms of the muscles in the pelvic region, pelvic limbs, and tail.
The following are remembrances of those who admired him as a true champion, a gentle teacher, and called him friend.
"I remember when Eden Roc arrived at the Equine Center. As soon as he stepped off the truck you could tell he was special---not because he was arrogant, but because you could actually see the kindness in his eyes. I thought to myself, 'who would donate this horse and aren’t we lucky that they haven chosen Centenary?' Of course, he came to us as many of them do, with some health issues, but I knew immediately that he would be an asset to the program in many ways. When one of the students rode him the following day, he showed his true colors. I only hoped that all of the students would learn how fortunate they were to have this wonderful animal in the barn. From that point on, Eden Roc, never ceased to amaze me and everyone around him.
"Eden was a wonderful and talented athlete in his early days. He had an extensive show record and competed successfully in some of the largest horse shows in the country. He won countless ribbons and trophies for his previous owners. For the college, he competed in countless IHSA, IDA and ANRC competitions. Anyone who was fortunate enough to draw Eden was always assured a good day full of ribbons. All of these accomplishments were quite impressive, but his show record was not the thing that would impress you the most. Eden was a consummate gentleman in every way. As I think back, it is hard to remember a time in the last four years that he put a foot in the wrong place.
"I consider myself fortunate to have taught many lessons on Eden Roc. He somehow seemed to know how to manage all situations with quiet grace. He never misbehaved. It would be hard to ever consider him as naughty. Occasionally, he would give his head a shake to show that he was enjoying himself or as if to say, 'I did that really well, didn’t I?' I can also think of times where a student would not be doing the right thing, and I swear, Eden Roc would wink at me on his way by as if to say, 'Don’t worry, I will get her out of this in one piece.' If you were a novice rider, he would safely show you how to do it right and if you were a more experienced rider, he would teach you how to do it better. I would often dare the riders to try to 'do it' better than Eden. It was a nearly impossible challenge, but it was great to watch them try.
"As humans and animal lovers, we assign human characteristics to animals. Most researchers and scientists will tell you that animals do not possess human traits. I would tell them that they have never seen Eden in action. There was a depth to his soul that was really quite remarkable. Even with his medical issues, he greeted each day with a wonderful attitude---always striving to give you all he had to offer. In the last few months, as his medical condition worsened, he would struggle to maintain his balance. As he gradually lost more control of his right hind leg, it would take him a few minutes to get started. The simple act of walking became increasingly more difficult for him. He would often hesitate to move, worried that he might lose his balance but ever so careful to avoid stepping on the people around him.
"Eden is gone now. We are left to morn the loss of an athlete, a great teacher and a wonderful friend. This marks a sad day of loss at the college and for the equine world. No longer will we see Eden’s kind face hanging out into the aisle. We have lost a true gentleman---to have seen Eden Roc perform has been an inspiration; to have taught lessons on Eden has been an honor; to have had Eden at Centenary College has been a privilege; to have known Eden has been pure joy. God Speed my dear friend---may we meet again someday. You were truly amazing and you will be missed."
- Andrea Wells,
Director of Centenary College Equestrian Center
Eden was the happiest horse in the barn, even with all of the issues going on with his leg. “We would call it getting stuck,” said Ashley DiBongrazio, a senior, referring to when Eden’s leg would start acting up and become suspended in the air, causing him to become off balance. Eden had such a great technique when it came to turning: he would pivot on the leg as he would turn so he would not become stuck.
“Everyone that worked around Eden felt a little sorry for him because we knew he really didn't have any control over it,” said DiBongrazio. “We all figured that there must be a small amount of pain involved.” Yet, regardless of Eden’s pain, he was one of those horses that loved his job and his life.
He was gentle in the ring, too. “Eden was a great teacher; he would help you out even if you didn't ride him just quite right,” said Suzanne Rausa, a graduate of Centenary College. “One summer I showed him at the Sussex horse show. I hadn't really ridden him that much, yet he packed me right around the course.”
Ethan Smock, another graduate, had the privilege of showing Eden at ANRC in 2006. “I was not sure we would be ready to show at an invitational event,” he said. “My worries were in vain because Eden Roc had my back the whole time. It ended up being one of the most wonderful events I have ever competed in.”
“The first time I rode Eden I couldn't ride him very well,” said DiBongrazio. “Once I figured him out he was a dream to ride. He gave me that feeling. You know that feeling? When the horse under you is so attentive to your every move, doing anything that is asked, all the while staying soft, and supple, and relaxed. That was definitely Eden.”
Eden Roc is the epitome of the Centenary College Equine Program. He gave himself whole-heartedly to anyone who asked and his cheerful presence never failed to light up a dreary day. And even towards the end where he could barely walk, his eyes held a light in them that said, “It’s okay, we will make it, just take it slow.”
- Coree Reuter, ’08
- Eden Roc at the ANRC, 2006.
"My fondest memory of Eden Roc though was in April (2006). It was a rough road surrounding the ANRC team of 2006. Our horse choices were slim at best because of the show schedules dueling with each other and the best horses on constant demand. Riding the big warmblood horses was never my thing---I could get on any Thoroughbred and feel confident in what I was doing, but meek as a mouse when something of European blood was between my legs.
"Down to the wire, Eden was the only horse who's lamenesses were manageable and who could deal with the vigors of the back to back showing---it was at a cost of course, but he could do it. Anyway, we practiced and were finally paired a maximum of 2 weeks before the competition. I was not sure I could have this horse and I ready to show at an invitational event. Needless to say, my worries were in vain because Eden Roc had my back the whole time. It ended up being one of the most wonderful events I have ever competed in and will always bring an ear-to-ear smile on my face. The preparations, the exhaustion and the glory felt from it all... it was like a dance had begun and the two of us had become one.
"The first two phases were good but it was the last one I had concern over. The last day came to the field phase---my first run out on an open course. To say the least I was nervous. We headed out and took that first jump; my tenseness melted away. All I remember was seeing his ears perk up, his heart jump and my body saying, 'go for it Eden!' and he did just that.
"Some things you can explain with words and others you can act out, but the feelings out there on that course can only be shared between Eden and I. The wind in our faces, the sun shown bright, and the beating of two hearts and four hooves across the North Carolina soil... heaven on earth. That was a true Eden---he was so happy to be out, opened up and moving. You could not have convinced me that there was a thing wrong with that horse, and I have the pictures to prove it. I wish I could share that experience with everyone but in reality I am glad that I had that time... that for ten minutes two different lives came together in what can only be defined as rhythm divine."
- Ethan Smock, ‘06
- A cartoon of Eden Roc with Lou. (Lou was the name of his bum leg.)
Oh, Eden P. I miss you now ... what can I say?
I don't know how.
You were my "up" when i was down ... you made me smile, and never frown.
You were my teacher, you were my friend - you always were that ... to the very end.
I'll never forget the way your ears perked up, galloping forward to every jump.
You came to Centenary and won our hearts, we knew you tried hard ... despite your rusty parts.
It's always hard to say goodbye, to someone you hold close inside.
And Eden P. you stand alone as the best horse i've ever known.
Love you E. Rest peacefully.
- Kate Mahland ‘06
Chester-He was a horse, and a friend of mine . . .
- TRAC rider Alex Zas with Chester, lead by Suzanne Storms.
- by Octavia Brown, Director TRAC
Recently, we have lost a grand old horse from our program. Chester was not a famous jumper in his day; he was somewhat homely to look at – a big old chestnut ex-hunter who came to Centenary when his owner decided he could no longer gallop and jump cross country following the Essex Fox Hounds. For years, he was a school horse, toting lower level riders through walk, trot and canter, and even over small jumps. Occasionally, it would seem as if he heard the huntsman’s horn blowing and he would take off full tilt at a gallop round whatever arena he was in, the riders hanging on for dear life as he indulged himself.
Gradually, though, his back started to give him trouble and he developed a condition called “stringhalt” where a hind leg would suddenly pop up into the air and it would dangle there until his muscles relaxed and he could put it down again. With 24/7 turnout this improved, and it was decided that the best job for Chester would be to work for our Therapeutic Riding program, TRAC. He took to this work like the proverbial duck to water! It seemed he really liked the young people with disabilities who clambered up onto his back from the mounting ramp. He never once put an ear back at them, and carefully walked and trotted around the ring as asked, giving his leader no problems and going at a steady pace that was easy for the side walkers to match.
And he was BIG! Our riders just loved the fact that they were up so high, looking down at the rest of us! For about two years Chester worked faithfully for TRAC, also doing walk-trot lessons for beginning riders without disabilities.
Eventually, however, those old back problems came back to haunt him, and his working days were over. In the end, his arthritic joints led to his having trouble lying down and getting up again from a nap and finally barely being able to walk at all. It was time to give him our final accolade: the privilege of being gently eased out of his pain forever.
We miss you, faithful friend! Your kindly acceptance of our TRAC riders will stand as a memorial in their hearts forever. Rest in peace!
“We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own live within a fragile circle, easily and often breached. Unable to accept its awful gaps, we still would live no other way. We cherish memory as the only certain immortality, never fully understanding the necessary plan. The life of a horse, often half our own, seems endless until one day. That day has come and gone for us, and we are once again within a somewhat smaller circle.”
- from “The Once Again Prince” found in "Separate Lifetimes" by Irving Townsend.