Could vonda tucker hamilton be the horsewoman of the century?
The criteria are: Candidate must have shown and placed on at least a national level. The candidate must have taught on the professional level with at least two students winning titles. (accredited teacher) Candidate must have a Degree in Equine Science. Candidate must developed a successful breeding program (without staff) Training Services (without staff).
When a person looks back on their life it is often with regret or remorse because they did not accomplish their goals, this cannot be said for Vonda Tucker Hamilton. When I was asked to write an article about Mrs. Hamilton, I was elated. I had heard many great things about her and was interested in getting quotes from her friends and family about the kind of person she really is. I had no clue that after sending out feelers that I would receive over 427 emails singing her praises. Most were people whom she had greatly influenced in their equine life. Vonda Tucker Hamilton's qualifications were seen on the first pages under her photo and she is all of those things. she is accomplished horse woman, breeder, highly intelligent and ambitious. Mrs. Hamilton is indeed a perfectionist as is apparent in the horses she breeds. What makes Mrs. Hamilton most worthy of the coveted "Horsewoman of the century Award" is her passion for horses she is literally in love with the horses. Mrs. Hamilton had made her lifelong mission to help others achieve their own goals working with horses. Due to limited space I was only allowed to print off a small number of the replies I received, although I could publish a book. The following emails are represented in their entirety to allow proper context.
Ms. Reynolds,I wanted to take a moment to respond to your inquiry on Vonda Hamilton. We are very pleased to hear that she is being considered for this award. Any recognition that she might receive for her work would certainly be well deserved. My understanding of your request was that you are aware of her many professional accomplishments and are currently more interested in hearing about Mrs. Hamilton personally. I would be more than happy to have an opportunity to share my thoughts. Vonda has not only blessed us with seven of the best horses that anyone could ever hope to own, she has become a respected and valued friend. We drove to North Carolina to see one of her horses after finding her farm online and having only a couple of brief phone conversations with her. I had a good feeling about her from the start and fortunately, I was correct. We purchased not one but two horses that first trip and were surprised to find that when she said that she "kept up with her babies" she meant it. Vonda and I have probably averaged two phone calls a week since that day. She is the main reason that I have unlimited long distance calling! Five more horses have made the trip North and I'm not certain that Serenity will be the last. I could not possibly put into words what these horses have come to mean to my family and myself. they are absolutely the most stunning and well behaved group ever to grace a campground or show ring. They are center of attention where ever we go. This, of course, is not even the point. Vonda has become my go to person for horse advice. She is always willing to take my call reguardless of the fact that she is overwhelmingly busy. She helps with everything from diet to meds to behaviors to training techniques. Most of all, she is a true devoted friend. She has opened her home to our family on more than one occasion. Two summers ago she invited my then fifteen year old son down to spend a week. He flew in the airport where Nathan picked him up. A week later they put him back on a plane for home having had a wonderful time. There is not another person anywhere who I would trust to do so. Recently, she stopped here in Mount Eden on her way to her mother's home for the holidays. We were so happy to be able to have them here for the night. When our house burned, she was on the spot with a huge box of clothes and even a check to help out through those first really rough days. When we lost a beloved horse, she was ready with medical advice and then emotional support. Vonda has taken a personal interest in my children and has watched them grow up with her horses. She probably knows as much about them as their grandparents. We also have a personal interest in her family. We have come to think a great deal of Nathan and Ashton as well as some of Vonda's friends. On last years vacation, we took a four hour detour to spend the day at Hamilton Stables where the kids played in the pool while the adults rode horses before everyone shared a great home cooked meal prepared by Vonda herself. We look forward to seeing the Hamilton's this summer as I hope to take a group camping trip where she can see for herself how invaluable her horses have become. In short, we went to North Carolina to see a woman about a horse and have been blessed to find not just a true horsewoman, but a dear friend. I believe that you could find no better a recipient for your award than Vonda Hamilton. Thank you for the opportunity to share our thoughts. Angela AldridgeLittle Bitty FarmMount Eden, KY
The following is an exert from Mr. B Stillwater's Journal"The colt breaking season has ended with 47 head ready to go to sale, it has been a long season and one I want be a forgettin soon I uns sure hate to see my Vondy gal goin back to Carolina that there gal had more grumption and stick to her than I ever seen in my 71 years. Iffin they raise all them gals that tough in Carolina the South shouldve won the blasted war. Ray and me won't soon forget all the work that gal put into the colts for us. That gal was a hungry sponge thirstin for horse knowledge like she would just die iffin she didn't ride every horse she saw. It was indeed a sad day to see that red ragtop drive away for the last time. Vondy me and Ray won't ever forget ya. Hope you'll think of us some too."Mr. Stillwater died at the age of 88. He had broke more mustangs than any wrangler using all natural methods. His last year breaking colts was 1989 two years after he met Vonda Hamilton. He is reported to have said that she was the best apprentice he had ever had. His grandchildren said he talked about Vonda's bareback colt breaking till the day he died. "That Vondy had Piney Tar on her butt, not a colt alive can shake that gal, them colts realize it purty quick to and just gentle to her song. Never met a gal loved ta sing like Vondy gal."
Terrie,Vonda Hamilton is an amazing woman. She is a friend that I can always count on, a mentor that dispenses invaluable advice, a business partner who always does more than her share and someone that I am proud to know on a daily basis.Unlike other riders and trainers of her caliber, Vonda doesn't broadcast her accomplishments every chance she gets. Her style is much more subtle. Instead of trying to prove herself to those around her by cramming her achievements down their throats, she wins them over through her natural charm, patience and expertise with the horses. In fact, I didn't even know about Vonda's show career or titles until we had been friends for quite some time.Vonda is one of the most trustworthy people I have ever known. The horses sense it - that's why they are so willing to do what she asks of them. They know she would never harm them. The children she teaches sense it. Even the adults sense it - I've seen Vonda walk into a grocery store and become privy to some incredibly personal information without even asking. There is just something about her that encourages people and animals to open up. Part of what makes Vonda such a good breeder, aside from her knowledge of animal husbandry and good taste in horses, is that she truly cares for each and every foal she produces. I have known her to refuse to sell a foal to a home that she knows would not take care of it the way that she would. She does her very best to keep track of the foals that she produces and encourages the owners to keep in touch. As a result of her efforts and fantastic breeding program, the majority of the people that purchase a foal from her return to purchase additional foals. She also helps the owners find new homes for the foals should the need arise in the future. She always goes above and beyond.Stephanie Pennell, Realtor, e-PRO, Eco-Broker
Vonda Hamilton is simply put......... one of the most wonderful people I have had the honor to know and call my friend. In the equine world her knowledge of horses, their gaits, breeding, training is on a level with all the more publicly known trainers and breeders. I lean on her for help solving training and breeding issues as well as simply health care for my horses. I also lean on her for encouragement when all seems to going wrong. Vonda's love for her horses is simply unparalleled. Anyone who went through the ordeal when teenagers set fire to her Dixie knows what kind of person Vonda is. She spent every moment treating this horse, spared no expensive to save her, was there night and day no matter how much sleep she lost. Vonda told me that she saw in Dixie's eyes the will to live and she was going to fight to keep her alive no matter what anyone else said. She put up with phone calls from "well meaning" individuals telling her she was cruel for keeping the mare alive and not just putting her down. Vonda is no quitter and one look at Dixie today should make all those "well meaning" individuals think twice before imposing their opinions on the next person striving to save their animal. And just a few weeks ago I found Vonda in tears because she had lost a foal. Her tenderness and love for animal is incredible. Also, most people don't know about Vonda's credentials. She is secure enough in herself that she doesn't have to inform everyone how knowledgeable she is or how many important people she knows. And her breeding program......WOW! I once asked Vonda why she didn't do artificial insemination because it would bring in more income. The answer was classic Vonda. She told me that she would not breed her stallion to a mare that she could not put her hands on to feel and look at. She had no intention of producing substandard foals. If only all breeders had this attitude the horse industry would not have so many unwanted animals. Vonda is a colleague and, I am so proud to say...... my friend. It's hard to say how much I respect and love her in a few paragraphs. She is a true horsewoman and model for others.Susan League
I feel very strongly that Vonda Hamilton deserves this award. Though her many accomplishments in the world of horses certainly speak for themselves, I think that Vonda's devotion to and passion for her work with horses and her uncommon quality of character are what make her most deserving of this award. I've known Vonda for about a year now. When I first met her I had just bought a Rocky Mountain Horse on recommendation of a friend and was looking for a place to board him. I stumbled upon Hamilton Stables by chance, but I was immediately drawn to the warm and friendly atmosphere of the place and the true passion for horses that plainly existed there. Not long after my arrival, my new horse began to display some alarming health issues.. Even though I was the new girl and she had no obligation to, Vonda immediately stepped in and started helping me take care of my horse without a second thought. The situation with my new horse continued to get worse and I found myself stuck in one of those horse-purchases gone awry, feeling like I've been duped by a used car salesman. However as my horse needed more and more medication Vonda continued to pitch in without ever asking for anything in return. Because of my horse's medical problems I couldn't ride him, so Vonda let me "foster", so to speak, one of her mares while we waited to see if my horse would improve. Things with my horse didn't improve and I gave him away to a loving family when his constant medical needs became too much for my pocketbook to bear. In the meantime, I had completely fallen in love with the mare that Vonda had let me borrow, so Vonda sold her to me. As simple as that sounds it was much bigger than that. This mare, Phoebe, was not just any horse and definitely not one that Vonda wanted to sell. The only reason that she sold Phoebe to me was because she saw how much I had grown to love her. It was a genuine act of kindness that I will never forget. I still have Phoebe, of course, and I have since bought another horse from Vonda named Camelot (he is one that she bred). Both Phoebe and Camelot are incredible horses. They have wonderful temperaments, and are naturally gaited, easy to handle, and very healthy with beautiful confirmation. Aside from my own horses, I have interacted with several other horses from Vonda's breeding program and found them all to be exceptional (sweet natured, easy-going, great confirmation, well-trained, etc). Horses have been my passion for my entire life (well, at least since I was old enough to know what a horse was) and I recognize the same enthusiasm in Vonda. I know that a year isn't a very long time to have known someone, but in that short time I have become friends with Vonda Hamilton and found her to be an exceptional horse woman and human being in every sense of the word. Sincerely, Lauren Barker
I met Vonda eight years ago after searching for the breeder of a horse I found a picture of on the internet. To my great fortune, as it turned out, that breeder was Vonda Hamilton and she lived only an hour away from me. She invited me over to tour her facility and to see the foals that she had available from the same lines as the one I saw on the internet. It was refreshing to meet someone who was breeding quality stock and not trying to get a fortune for them. Her horses and foals were beautiful, from high end pedigrees and were all so people friendly. Her stallion was gorgeous and was just as personable as could be. She didn't have what I was looking for at the time so offered to keep me informed of new foals as they hit the ground. It wasn't long. A few weeks later I purchased the first of what would be many foals from Vonda. We became fast friends, a surprising situation for me as I had grown bitter and untrusting of horse people over the last few decades. Vonda was a refreshing breath of air. From the first day I met her, she had always been completely honest almost to a fault, very supportive with any questions or situations that arose with my foals and generous with her prices, time and knowledge. She has earned a special trust from me that I guard jealously from giving. I have learned over the years that no matter how fanciful a story Vonda tells me it has always proven true. She makes me laugh, she makes bad situations right and has always been available to me when I have been in need of anything at all. She is likely the most honest, kind, giving, modest, and dedicated person I know or will ever meet. I count myself as one of the lucky few who share in Vonda's personal and professional life. Few to none could find a truthful negative thing to say about Vonda. She earns the respect and friendship that she has and deserves every bit of it. Outside of a eulogy you won't find someone that nicer things can be told about. She really is one of a very special few. Hope you find something useful in my reference for Vonda.
Thanks,Lorin McNulty
Hello Terrie! I have known Vonda for many years and the very best thing I can say about her personally is that she abhors horse abuse and truly breeds the gait in instead of "nailing it on"! She is also not after the "big bucks" that come more often with the TWHBEA and has stuck to her non-abusive guns all these years. She and her husband are TRUE horse lovers in every sense of the word.Bonnie A. Yeager IPWHR
I've been married to Vonda for almost 9 years. Anyone who knows Vonda will tell you that her love for horses doesn't stop with just horses. She has that same caring, loving, and compassion about everything she does and for everyone she meets. She has never met a stranger. People seem to flock to her and open up to her about things they can't even believe they're telling. She's loved horses (and animals) all her life. When she was around her teens her love for horses get to a level to where she had to get involved with them. Her parents were not necessarily open to the ideal so she would ride her bike to a local horse stable facility and work for riding lessons. She just had to be around horses. Every chance she got, she would be at that facility. She did this until she was 17 and left for college. Even during her time in college she still had time for horses, training and working with horses every chance she got. She began by taking equine classes but soon took over teaching classes. At one point she moved to South Carolina and worked for a major saddlebred farm where she showed and trained saddlebreds. She won numerous state and national awards. Competitors hated seeing Vonda at the show back then because she could outride other riders into the ground. There was just something about her that couldn't be touched. I had also heard stories of when she was in South Carolins of how she was the only one who could handle some of those saddlebred stallions. This I have personally witnessed with other horses (and dogs) when she'd walk up to them and their owners can't believe they let her. I really think they sense her "goodness" and welcome her.She has also rescued several horses that were wild and scared as a deer and seen her turn them around with love and patience. She has a "rescue" horse now that was probably 500 pounds under weight when she got here and you couldn't even get close to her at all. This horse was traumatized. After a while she was able to get close to her to rub her and the horse would just shake so wildly from fear. She has worked with this horse for a couple of months now and she can now walk up to her and rub her anywhere and the horse is now at a healthy weight and happy. I hope this helps some. Let me know if you need anything else.Nathan Hamilton Jr. (husband)
Hi Terrie,My name is Crystal Lane and I just received your email about Vonda. I am thrilled to hear of her nomination. I have known Vonda for about 7 years now. I met her when I called her stable for lessons. Vonda exceeded my expectations when I met her. She is very friendly and has a contagious enthusiasm for horses. She welcomes everyone to her farm and makes them feel comfortable while there. She is extremely giving of her time and enjoys helping others that share her passion for horses. She has a compassionate heart and never give-up attitude. She, in my opinion, is very deserving of the nomination. Mrs. Hamilton does and outstanding job with her stables. Her horses are very versatile and have very good temperament. When someone selects to purchase a horse from Mrs. Hamilton they get not only a horse, but a very knowledgeable horsewoman and friend. She wants the partnership of horse and owner to be successful and enjoyable for both. She strives to better not only her horses but the breed as well. Once most people own a horse from Hamilton Stables they come back for another. I feel that is a compliment to the Mrs. Hamilton and the work that she does. I truly believe that people like Vonda are a blessing to the horse industry. She is a blessing to all whose life she touches. I feel very confident in saying that Vonda is living her dream and loving every minute of it.I hope this helps you in some way. Please keep me updated on the status of her nomination. Crystal
Dear Terrie, Thank you for giving me the opportunity to tell you a little bit about Vonda! She's a wonderful woman and a great horsewoman. I first met Vonda in May 2005 when I was looking online for a horse to purchase. There, I found a picture of the most beautiful baby I'd ever seen. I called Vonda about coming out to take a look at the little filly and we set the date for that Saturday. She was friendly upon my first meeting her greeting me with a warm smile and a firm hand-shake! We walked around her barn and into the pasture where I saw my future Darling! I also took a look at a colt she was close to weaning. Vonda Casually asked me questions about my horsey-history and what my plans may be with the filly. I could tell she cared very much for this and all the other babies she had sold. It wasn't until later, that I discovered just how much she cared!
Apparently, I was a good candidate to purchase the filly named Darling! Over the course of just a few weeks, I grew more and more close to Vonda. I'd share my stories of horsing around and she'd tell me all about her days training saddlebreds. I also learned about the things I was blind to: soaring. I had no idea of what made some of the horses in the show rings step so high! We were talking about our horses (of which I had now acquired two!) and I happened to see the magazines that were sent to her. She sadly shook her head and said, "Just look at that! That horse is SORE!" I said, "what do you mean?" Vonda said, "you can tell how badly the are sored by looking at the legs. You see how high he's lifting that leg? See how the cannon bone looks, all wavy? That's what soring looks like."Vonda further explained the painful methods she had seen in use by some of the former trainers she had worked with. Everything from putting alcohol and gas on the legs to chap the skin around the cornet, to placing screws in the feet. "Why do you think I asked you so many questions when you came to look at Darling?" She asked. After my purchase, Vonda and I had become fast friends spending nearly every together watching the horses and talking like cousins! I would have sworn she was a long lost sister! We'd have so much fun. I always looked forward to weekends. I always learned something! In 2007, I had to leave NC for WA and was very sad to say goodbye. But I still talk to Vonda frequently and share e-mails nearly daily. I am the proud owner of three Flash foals Darling (my initial love), Frost (whom I bought for my husband), and Jewel (my raffle horse). I have to say that Vonda is the perfect selection for this highly-esteemed award! She is patient, kind and generous.. She has taught me so very much in those two years, and she's still schooling me! I'm always asking her for advice! It has been my honor to know Vonda and to be lucky enough to have her trust me with her babies! I have pictures on the website for my Flash babies! feel free to use what you like: gonegaitedfarms.com!Thanks again for giving me the opportunity!Sincerely,Heather McDougall
I actually didn't know of any of Vonda's professional accomplishments. She's never mentioned them to me, but... that's the type of woman she is. My dealings/contact with her have been on a much more casual level. Dealing with breeding programs, raising foals, etc. Just on what I know of her without her professional accomplishments, I do believe Vonda is a worthy candidate for horse woman of the century. Her genuine love and adoration for the horse is beyond comprehension.I'm sure you've read and/or heard about her nursing back to health the horse that was severely burned. She did this in spite of many negative comments she received about her selfish needs taking over what was best for the horse. In her darkest moment she persevered through the negative comments to do what she felt in her own heart was the right thing to do -- fight for that mare's life. I have no doubt that if Vonda had felt it was in the mare's best interest to end her suffering, she would have in a second. She could see the life and fight in the mare's eyes and felt with prayer and love she could give that mare a second chance at life, and not just a second chance at life, but a second chance at a "good" life. If horses were able to give hugs of gratitude I have no doubt that mare would be hugging Vonda -- thanking her for not giving up on her even when things didn't look good. It wasn't a short period of time that Vonda devoted her life to that mare, but many, many, many months. I don't believe there are too many others out there that would have had that type of love and devotion to their horse to persevere through so much to see their horse (especially a horse with little monetary worth) survive and thrive. And that's only one aspect of Vonda's make-up. She is very sweet, meek, and unassuming woman. I'm not sure she's ever met a person she doesn't like, and she seems to see the good in everyone. I often wish I were more like her. She is probably the most amazing compassionate woman I've gotten the chance to know. SO... having said all that if I were to choose from the people I know myself... yes, I would choose Vonda as the Horse Woman of the Century. Hope that helps.Jody Keihle-Decker
Shortly after relocating to North Carolina from California over 2 years ago we were very blessed to have met Vonda Hamilton. I contacted her for lessons for my then 9 year old daughter. Little did I know she would become such a loving friend and part of our "family."I am so grateful that we met Vonda. My daughter immediately loved her and did very well taking lessons from Vonda. Meghan had taken lessons before and advanced very quickly. Vonda moved her to one of her intermediate horses named Ruffles. Meghan and Ruffles bonded very well and Ruffles was pregnant. We were beginning to think about buying a horse and Vonda helped us learn what we needed to know along the way.Meghan decided she really wanted to raise her horse and wanted the baby from Ruffles. Pringles was born June 2008 and Meghan was immediately in love.Over several months we had observed Flash and what a gentle stallion he was. In the end we purchased Pringles and his brother Ranger so the could grow up together. At the same time we were looking for an appropriate horse to buy for Meghan to ride while Pringles and Ranger matured. Seeing the great relationship Meghan had with Ruffle's, Vonda offered to sell us Ruffle's. After having them home for several months, I decided it was time I have a horse as well. Another Flash foal, Legend, had become available and it was our anniversary. SO you can guess what I asked for as a present. So we have purchased all of 4 of our horses from Vonda and have not been disappointed. We have 3 half brothers sired by Flash. They are all the sweetest horses. Ruffles has been perfect with Meghan. The "boys" watch for us each morning and are mellow enough that my 3.5 year old has been running around under foot without shoes on for over a year. They don't flinch and seem to be extra careful when she is about. The two younger boys are not trained yet as they are not quite 2 year old. We have had the little ones on both of them bareback and have had saddles on them and they act like they've done it all their lives. I would not hesitate to purchase another horse from Vonda Hamilton. We have many friends that have purchased horses elsewhere and have had nothing but problems with their horses. Vonda is extremely knowledgeable about horses and people. She takes times to get to know you and can help you choose the right horse for your family. Vonda is a sincere and authentic person and I feel so lucky to have her in our lives. I wouldn't change a thing. She is most definitely deserving of this award!Sincerely, Angela Ponzini
As you can see by the above references Mrs. Hamilton not only adheres to the criteria of the award but also carries the love and respect in all aspects of her equine relationships.We can only wait and see who will win The Horsewoman of the Century Award but in this writer's mind Mrs. Hamilton has definitely left her mark on the horse world and will never be forgotten for her contributions to all who have had the pleasure to know her.Terrie Reynolds
When a person looks back on their life it is often with regret or remorse because they did not accomplish their goals, this cannot be said for Vonda Tucker Hamilton. When I was asked to write an article about Mrs. Hamilton, I was elated. I had heard many great things about her and was interested in getting quotes from her friends and family about the kind of person she really is. I had no clue that after sending out feelers that I would receive over 427 emails singing her praises. Most were people whom she had greatly influenced in their equine life. Vonda Tucker Hamilton's qualifications were seen on the first pages under her photo and she is all of those things. she is accomplished horse woman, breeder, highly intelligent and ambitious. Mrs. Hamilton is indeed a perfectionist as is apparent in the horses she breeds. What makes Mrs. Hamilton most worthy of the coveted "Horsewoman of the century Award" is her passion for horses she is literally in love with the horses. Mrs. Hamilton had made her lifelong mission to help others achieve their own goals working with horses. Due to limited space I was only allowed to print off a small number of the replies I received, although I could publish a book. The following emails are represented in their entirety to allow proper context.
Ms. Reynolds,I wanted to take a moment to respond to your inquiry on Vonda Hamilton. We are very pleased to hear that she is being considered for this award. Any recognition that she might receive for her work would certainly be well deserved. My understanding of your request was that you are aware of her many professional accomplishments and are currently more interested in hearing about Mrs. Hamilton personally. I would be more than happy to have an opportunity to share my thoughts. Vonda has not only blessed us with seven of the best horses that anyone could ever hope to own, she has become a respected and valued friend. We drove to North Carolina to see one of her horses after finding her farm online and having only a couple of brief phone conversations with her. I had a good feeling about her from the start and fortunately, I was correct. We purchased not one but two horses that first trip and were surprised to find that when she said that she "kept up with her babies" she meant it. Vonda and I have probably averaged two phone calls a week since that day. She is the main reason that I have unlimited long distance calling! Five more horses have made the trip North and I'm not certain that Serenity will be the last. I could not possibly put into words what these horses have come to mean to my family and myself. they are absolutely the most stunning and well behaved group ever to grace a campground or show ring. They are center of attention where ever we go. This, of course, is not even the point. Vonda has become my go to person for horse advice. She is always willing to take my call reguardless of the fact that she is overwhelmingly busy. She helps with everything from diet to meds to behaviors to training techniques. Most of all, she is a true devoted friend. She has opened her home to our family on more than one occasion. Two summers ago she invited my then fifteen year old son down to spend a week. He flew in the airport where Nathan picked him up. A week later they put him back on a plane for home having had a wonderful time. There is not another person anywhere who I would trust to do so. Recently, she stopped here in Mount Eden on her way to her mother's home for the holidays. We were so happy to be able to have them here for the night. When our house burned, she was on the spot with a huge box of clothes and even a check to help out through those first really rough days. When we lost a beloved horse, she was ready with medical advice and then emotional support. Vonda has taken a personal interest in my children and has watched them grow up with her horses. She probably knows as much about them as their grandparents. We also have a personal interest in her family. We have come to think a great deal of Nathan and Ashton as well as some of Vonda's friends. On last years vacation, we took a four hour detour to spend the day at Hamilton Stables where the kids played in the pool while the adults rode horses before everyone shared a great home cooked meal prepared by Vonda herself. We look forward to seeing the Hamilton's this summer as I hope to take a group camping trip where she can see for herself how invaluable her horses have become. In short, we went to North Carolina to see a woman about a horse and have been blessed to find not just a true horsewoman, but a dear friend. I believe that you could find no better a recipient for your award than Vonda Hamilton. Thank you for the opportunity to share our thoughts. Angela AldridgeLittle Bitty FarmMount Eden, KY
The following is an exert from Mr. B Stillwater's Journal"The colt breaking season has ended with 47 head ready to go to sale, it has been a long season and one I want be a forgettin soon I uns sure hate to see my Vondy gal goin back to Carolina that there gal had more grumption and stick to her than I ever seen in my 71 years. Iffin they raise all them gals that tough in Carolina the South shouldve won the blasted war. Ray and me won't soon forget all the work that gal put into the colts for us. That gal was a hungry sponge thirstin for horse knowledge like she would just die iffin she didn't ride every horse she saw. It was indeed a sad day to see that red ragtop drive away for the last time. Vondy me and Ray won't ever forget ya. Hope you'll think of us some too."Mr. Stillwater died at the age of 88. He had broke more mustangs than any wrangler using all natural methods. His last year breaking colts was 1989 two years after he met Vonda Hamilton. He is reported to have said that she was the best apprentice he had ever had. His grandchildren said he talked about Vonda's bareback colt breaking till the day he died. "That Vondy had Piney Tar on her butt, not a colt alive can shake that gal, them colts realize it purty quick to and just gentle to her song. Never met a gal loved ta sing like Vondy gal."
Terrie,Vonda Hamilton is an amazing woman. She is a friend that I can always count on, a mentor that dispenses invaluable advice, a business partner who always does more than her share and someone that I am proud to know on a daily basis.Unlike other riders and trainers of her caliber, Vonda doesn't broadcast her accomplishments every chance she gets. Her style is much more subtle. Instead of trying to prove herself to those around her by cramming her achievements down their throats, she wins them over through her natural charm, patience and expertise with the horses. In fact, I didn't even know about Vonda's show career or titles until we had been friends for quite some time.Vonda is one of the most trustworthy people I have ever known. The horses sense it - that's why they are so willing to do what she asks of them. They know she would never harm them. The children she teaches sense it. Even the adults sense it - I've seen Vonda walk into a grocery store and become privy to some incredibly personal information without even asking. There is just something about her that encourages people and animals to open up. Part of what makes Vonda such a good breeder, aside from her knowledge of animal husbandry and good taste in horses, is that she truly cares for each and every foal she produces. I have known her to refuse to sell a foal to a home that she knows would not take care of it the way that she would. She does her very best to keep track of the foals that she produces and encourages the owners to keep in touch. As a result of her efforts and fantastic breeding program, the majority of the people that purchase a foal from her return to purchase additional foals. She also helps the owners find new homes for the foals should the need arise in the future. She always goes above and beyond.Stephanie Pennell, Realtor, e-PRO, Eco-Broker
Vonda Hamilton is simply put......... one of the most wonderful people I have had the honor to know and call my friend. In the equine world her knowledge of horses, their gaits, breeding, training is on a level with all the more publicly known trainers and breeders. I lean on her for help solving training and breeding issues as well as simply health care for my horses. I also lean on her for encouragement when all seems to going wrong. Vonda's love for her horses is simply unparalleled. Anyone who went through the ordeal when teenagers set fire to her Dixie knows what kind of person Vonda is. She spent every moment treating this horse, spared no expensive to save her, was there night and day no matter how much sleep she lost. Vonda told me that she saw in Dixie's eyes the will to live and she was going to fight to keep her alive no matter what anyone else said. She put up with phone calls from "well meaning" individuals telling her she was cruel for keeping the mare alive and not just putting her down. Vonda is no quitter and one look at Dixie today should make all those "well meaning" individuals think twice before imposing their opinions on the next person striving to save their animal. And just a few weeks ago I found Vonda in tears because she had lost a foal. Her tenderness and love for animal is incredible. Also, most people don't know about Vonda's credentials. She is secure enough in herself that she doesn't have to inform everyone how knowledgeable she is or how many important people she knows. And her breeding program......WOW! I once asked Vonda why she didn't do artificial insemination because it would bring in more income. The answer was classic Vonda. She told me that she would not breed her stallion to a mare that she could not put her hands on to feel and look at. She had no intention of producing substandard foals. If only all breeders had this attitude the horse industry would not have so many unwanted animals. Vonda is a colleague and, I am so proud to say...... my friend. It's hard to say how much I respect and love her in a few paragraphs. She is a true horsewoman and model for others.Susan League
I feel very strongly that Vonda Hamilton deserves this award. Though her many accomplishments in the world of horses certainly speak for themselves, I think that Vonda's devotion to and passion for her work with horses and her uncommon quality of character are what make her most deserving of this award. I've known Vonda for about a year now. When I first met her I had just bought a Rocky Mountain Horse on recommendation of a friend and was looking for a place to board him. I stumbled upon Hamilton Stables by chance, but I was immediately drawn to the warm and friendly atmosphere of the place and the true passion for horses that plainly existed there. Not long after my arrival, my new horse began to display some alarming health issues.. Even though I was the new girl and she had no obligation to, Vonda immediately stepped in and started helping me take care of my horse without a second thought. The situation with my new horse continued to get worse and I found myself stuck in one of those horse-purchases gone awry, feeling like I've been duped by a used car salesman. However as my horse needed more and more medication Vonda continued to pitch in without ever asking for anything in return. Because of my horse's medical problems I couldn't ride him, so Vonda let me "foster", so to speak, one of her mares while we waited to see if my horse would improve. Things with my horse didn't improve and I gave him away to a loving family when his constant medical needs became too much for my pocketbook to bear. In the meantime, I had completely fallen in love with the mare that Vonda had let me borrow, so Vonda sold her to me. As simple as that sounds it was much bigger than that. This mare, Phoebe, was not just any horse and definitely not one that Vonda wanted to sell. The only reason that she sold Phoebe to me was because she saw how much I had grown to love her. It was a genuine act of kindness that I will never forget. I still have Phoebe, of course, and I have since bought another horse from Vonda named Camelot (he is one that she bred). Both Phoebe and Camelot are incredible horses. They have wonderful temperaments, and are naturally gaited, easy to handle, and very healthy with beautiful confirmation. Aside from my own horses, I have interacted with several other horses from Vonda's breeding program and found them all to be exceptional (sweet natured, easy-going, great confirmation, well-trained, etc). Horses have been my passion for my entire life (well, at least since I was old enough to know what a horse was) and I recognize the same enthusiasm in Vonda. I know that a year isn't a very long time to have known someone, but in that short time I have become friends with Vonda Hamilton and found her to be an exceptional horse woman and human being in every sense of the word. Sincerely, Lauren Barker
I met Vonda eight years ago after searching for the breeder of a horse I found a picture of on the internet. To my great fortune, as it turned out, that breeder was Vonda Hamilton and she lived only an hour away from me. She invited me over to tour her facility and to see the foals that she had available from the same lines as the one I saw on the internet. It was refreshing to meet someone who was breeding quality stock and not trying to get a fortune for them. Her horses and foals were beautiful, from high end pedigrees and were all so people friendly. Her stallion was gorgeous and was just as personable as could be. She didn't have what I was looking for at the time so offered to keep me informed of new foals as they hit the ground. It wasn't long. A few weeks later I purchased the first of what would be many foals from Vonda. We became fast friends, a surprising situation for me as I had grown bitter and untrusting of horse people over the last few decades. Vonda was a refreshing breath of air. From the first day I met her, she had always been completely honest almost to a fault, very supportive with any questions or situations that arose with my foals and generous with her prices, time and knowledge. She has earned a special trust from me that I guard jealously from giving. I have learned over the years that no matter how fanciful a story Vonda tells me it has always proven true. She makes me laugh, she makes bad situations right and has always been available to me when I have been in need of anything at all. She is likely the most honest, kind, giving, modest, and dedicated person I know or will ever meet. I count myself as one of the lucky few who share in Vonda's personal and professional life. Few to none could find a truthful negative thing to say about Vonda. She earns the respect and friendship that she has and deserves every bit of it. Outside of a eulogy you won't find someone that nicer things can be told about. She really is one of a very special few. Hope you find something useful in my reference for Vonda.
Thanks,Lorin McNulty
Hello Terrie! I have known Vonda for many years and the very best thing I can say about her personally is that she abhors horse abuse and truly breeds the gait in instead of "nailing it on"! She is also not after the "big bucks" that come more often with the TWHBEA and has stuck to her non-abusive guns all these years. She and her husband are TRUE horse lovers in every sense of the word.Bonnie A. Yeager IPWHR
I've been married to Vonda for almost 9 years. Anyone who knows Vonda will tell you that her love for horses doesn't stop with just horses. She has that same caring, loving, and compassion about everything she does and for everyone she meets. She has never met a stranger. People seem to flock to her and open up to her about things they can't even believe they're telling. She's loved horses (and animals) all her life. When she was around her teens her love for horses get to a level to where she had to get involved with them. Her parents were not necessarily open to the ideal so she would ride her bike to a local horse stable facility and work for riding lessons. She just had to be around horses. Every chance she got, she would be at that facility. She did this until she was 17 and left for college. Even during her time in college she still had time for horses, training and working with horses every chance she got. She began by taking equine classes but soon took over teaching classes. At one point she moved to South Carolina and worked for a major saddlebred farm where she showed and trained saddlebreds. She won numerous state and national awards. Competitors hated seeing Vonda at the show back then because she could outride other riders into the ground. There was just something about her that couldn't be touched. I had also heard stories of when she was in South Carolins of how she was the only one who could handle some of those saddlebred stallions. This I have personally witnessed with other horses (and dogs) when she'd walk up to them and their owners can't believe they let her. I really think they sense her "goodness" and welcome her.She has also rescued several horses that were wild and scared as a deer and seen her turn them around with love and patience. She has a "rescue" horse now that was probably 500 pounds under weight when she got here and you couldn't even get close to her at all. This horse was traumatized. After a while she was able to get close to her to rub her and the horse would just shake so wildly from fear. She has worked with this horse for a couple of months now and she can now walk up to her and rub her anywhere and the horse is now at a healthy weight and happy. I hope this helps some. Let me know if you need anything else.Nathan Hamilton Jr. (husband)
Hi Terrie,My name is Crystal Lane and I just received your email about Vonda. I am thrilled to hear of her nomination. I have known Vonda for about 7 years now. I met her when I called her stable for lessons. Vonda exceeded my expectations when I met her. She is very friendly and has a contagious enthusiasm for horses. She welcomes everyone to her farm and makes them feel comfortable while there. She is extremely giving of her time and enjoys helping others that share her passion for horses. She has a compassionate heart and never give-up attitude. She, in my opinion, is very deserving of the nomination. Mrs. Hamilton does and outstanding job with her stables. Her horses are very versatile and have very good temperament. When someone selects to purchase a horse from Mrs. Hamilton they get not only a horse, but a very knowledgeable horsewoman and friend. She wants the partnership of horse and owner to be successful and enjoyable for both. She strives to better not only her horses but the breed as well. Once most people own a horse from Hamilton Stables they come back for another. I feel that is a compliment to the Mrs. Hamilton and the work that she does. I truly believe that people like Vonda are a blessing to the horse industry. She is a blessing to all whose life she touches. I feel very confident in saying that Vonda is living her dream and loving every minute of it.I hope this helps you in some way. Please keep me updated on the status of her nomination. Crystal
Dear Terrie, Thank you for giving me the opportunity to tell you a little bit about Vonda! She's a wonderful woman and a great horsewoman. I first met Vonda in May 2005 when I was looking online for a horse to purchase. There, I found a picture of the most beautiful baby I'd ever seen. I called Vonda about coming out to take a look at the little filly and we set the date for that Saturday. She was friendly upon my first meeting her greeting me with a warm smile and a firm hand-shake! We walked around her barn and into the pasture where I saw my future Darling! I also took a look at a colt she was close to weaning. Vonda Casually asked me questions about my horsey-history and what my plans may be with the filly. I could tell she cared very much for this and all the other babies she had sold. It wasn't until later, that I discovered just how much she cared!
Apparently, I was a good candidate to purchase the filly named Darling! Over the course of just a few weeks, I grew more and more close to Vonda. I'd share my stories of horsing around and she'd tell me all about her days training saddlebreds. I also learned about the things I was blind to: soaring. I had no idea of what made some of the horses in the show rings step so high! We were talking about our horses (of which I had now acquired two!) and I happened to see the magazines that were sent to her. She sadly shook her head and said, "Just look at that! That horse is SORE!" I said, "what do you mean?" Vonda said, "you can tell how badly the are sored by looking at the legs. You see how high he's lifting that leg? See how the cannon bone looks, all wavy? That's what soring looks like."Vonda further explained the painful methods she had seen in use by some of the former trainers she had worked with. Everything from putting alcohol and gas on the legs to chap the skin around the cornet, to placing screws in the feet. "Why do you think I asked you so many questions when you came to look at Darling?" She asked. After my purchase, Vonda and I had become fast friends spending nearly every together watching the horses and talking like cousins! I would have sworn she was a long lost sister! We'd have so much fun. I always looked forward to weekends. I always learned something! In 2007, I had to leave NC for WA and was very sad to say goodbye. But I still talk to Vonda frequently and share e-mails nearly daily. I am the proud owner of three Flash foals Darling (my initial love), Frost (whom I bought for my husband), and Jewel (my raffle horse). I have to say that Vonda is the perfect selection for this highly-esteemed award! She is patient, kind and generous.. She has taught me so very much in those two years, and she's still schooling me! I'm always asking her for advice! It has been my honor to know Vonda and to be lucky enough to have her trust me with her babies! I have pictures on the website for my Flash babies! feel free to use what you like: gonegaitedfarms.com!Thanks again for giving me the opportunity!Sincerely,Heather McDougall
I actually didn't know of any of Vonda's professional accomplishments. She's never mentioned them to me, but... that's the type of woman she is. My dealings/contact with her have been on a much more casual level. Dealing with breeding programs, raising foals, etc. Just on what I know of her without her professional accomplishments, I do believe Vonda is a worthy candidate for horse woman of the century. Her genuine love and adoration for the horse is beyond comprehension.I'm sure you've read and/or heard about her nursing back to health the horse that was severely burned. She did this in spite of many negative comments she received about her selfish needs taking over what was best for the horse. In her darkest moment she persevered through the negative comments to do what she felt in her own heart was the right thing to do -- fight for that mare's life. I have no doubt that if Vonda had felt it was in the mare's best interest to end her suffering, she would have in a second. She could see the life and fight in the mare's eyes and felt with prayer and love she could give that mare a second chance at life, and not just a second chance at life, but a second chance at a "good" life. If horses were able to give hugs of gratitude I have no doubt that mare would be hugging Vonda -- thanking her for not giving up on her even when things didn't look good. It wasn't a short period of time that Vonda devoted her life to that mare, but many, many, many months. I don't believe there are too many others out there that would have had that type of love and devotion to their horse to persevere through so much to see their horse (especially a horse with little monetary worth) survive and thrive. And that's only one aspect of Vonda's make-up. She is very sweet, meek, and unassuming woman. I'm not sure she's ever met a person she doesn't like, and she seems to see the good in everyone. I often wish I were more like her. She is probably the most amazing compassionate woman I've gotten the chance to know. SO... having said all that if I were to choose from the people I know myself... yes, I would choose Vonda as the Horse Woman of the Century. Hope that helps.Jody Keihle-Decker
Shortly after relocating to North Carolina from California over 2 years ago we were very blessed to have met Vonda Hamilton. I contacted her for lessons for my then 9 year old daughter. Little did I know she would become such a loving friend and part of our "family."I am so grateful that we met Vonda. My daughter immediately loved her and did very well taking lessons from Vonda. Meghan had taken lessons before and advanced very quickly. Vonda moved her to one of her intermediate horses named Ruffles. Meghan and Ruffles bonded very well and Ruffles was pregnant. We were beginning to think about buying a horse and Vonda helped us learn what we needed to know along the way.Meghan decided she really wanted to raise her horse and wanted the baby from Ruffles. Pringles was born June 2008 and Meghan was immediately in love.Over several months we had observed Flash and what a gentle stallion he was. In the end we purchased Pringles and his brother Ranger so the could grow up together. At the same time we were looking for an appropriate horse to buy for Meghan to ride while Pringles and Ranger matured. Seeing the great relationship Meghan had with Ruffle's, Vonda offered to sell us Ruffle's. After having them home for several months, I decided it was time I have a horse as well. Another Flash foal, Legend, had become available and it was our anniversary. SO you can guess what I asked for as a present. So we have purchased all of 4 of our horses from Vonda and have not been disappointed. We have 3 half brothers sired by Flash. They are all the sweetest horses. Ruffles has been perfect with Meghan. The "boys" watch for us each morning and are mellow enough that my 3.5 year old has been running around under foot without shoes on for over a year. They don't flinch and seem to be extra careful when she is about. The two younger boys are not trained yet as they are not quite 2 year old. We have had the little ones on both of them bareback and have had saddles on them and they act like they've done it all their lives. I would not hesitate to purchase another horse from Vonda Hamilton. We have many friends that have purchased horses elsewhere and have had nothing but problems with their horses. Vonda is extremely knowledgeable about horses and people. She takes times to get to know you and can help you choose the right horse for your family. Vonda is a sincere and authentic person and I feel so lucky to have her in our lives. I wouldn't change a thing. She is most definitely deserving of this award!Sincerely, Angela Ponzini
As you can see by the above references Mrs. Hamilton not only adheres to the criteria of the award but also carries the love and respect in all aspects of her equine relationships.We can only wait and see who will win The Horsewoman of the Century Award but in this writer's mind Mrs. Hamilton has definitely left her mark on the horse world and will never be forgotten for her contributions to all who have had the pleasure to know her.Terrie Reynolds