Now we are getting down to the wire; this is one of the younger gals in the race. We would like to introduce you to Julie Nafe.
Julie is not racing this steed, but boy is he awesome!
So. Julie, inquiring minds want to know…………
How old are you?
I am 21 years old.
Who are you riding?
I have the pleasure of using my trainer’s personal horse named Madame Belvedere or Belle. She is a lovely seven-year-old unraced thoroughbred mare. She is an avid Fox hunter and 1st flight field masters horse. I am blessed to have such a patient and witty mount to work with.
Where are you coming from?
I currently live in Birdsboro PA, after moving back from the Malvern area a few years ago. A bit of a hike to the true horse country but it doesn’t slow me down!
How long have you been riding and when did you take up sidesaddle?
I have been riding since I was about four years old. I do not come from a family of horseman but after my first pony ride at a fair the sport of horses ran thick in my blood. I spent most of my childhood in the barn picking up many disciplines along the way such as driving, hunter/ jumpers, western pleasure, pony races, breaking and galloping race horses. So when the opportunity arose to try side saddle( thanks to sue sisco)I couldn’t wait to get in the tack. I’ve only been riding aside about a year now. Trying to take in as much experience as possible also thanks to Cindy Buchanan for her time and willingness to help get me started in the side saddle world.
Are you a Foxhunter and if so, how long have you been hunting and who do you hunt with?
Indeed I am an avid Fox Hunter. I have been hunting since I was about 8 years old starting out with the Gable-swisher hunt learning the tricks of the trade. I have had the privilege to hunt with many different hunts frequently such as Kimberton, river hills, Radnor, Cochran, and doc Addis. Also having a blast whipping-in periodically for river hills and gable-swisher.
What do you love about sidesaddle?
I enjoy being part of an old tradition that is not eloquently practiced today. The etiquette is unique from the clothing to simply the riding style. It is also a nice challenge for me to widen my riding skills and abilities.
What do you do besides ride?
I have a small barn of my own that I have a couple of project horses where I break them, then introduce them to hunting to hopefully be fine hunting mounts. I am also a CNA and Med- Tech in nursing where I practice at the Tel-Hai retirement community. I am a mover!
What part of the weekend are you looking forward to most?
I used to race at Cheshire as a kid, so I am very much excited to be back on the course. But surely not to forget meeting new people and generally having a good old day at the races!
Chasing a Fox wants to wish Julie and Belle good luck on race day!
For more information about the race go to cheshirepointtopoint.com
