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Iain Finlay

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

I love the trails that take you to magical places in the forests. I also enjoy trailering into Wunderlich Park and trail riding through the Santa Cruz Mountains up to Alice’s Restaurant on Skyline Blvd.

What kind of riding do you do?

My first passion is show jumping, but most of my horse time these days is riding on the trails.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

There are many, but one stands out. Back when there were stables on the upper west side in Manhattan, I remember one summer’s day taking a horse out early in the morning to avoid the heat. We rode over to the reservoir in Central Park and cantered around the reservoir with all the morning joggers. I was the only one on horseback, and it was an out of this world experience! Sadly, those stables closed a few years back.

Tell us something about you and horses…

I learn every day from the community of horses that surround me: Their size and majesty; their habits and mannerisms. They are fascinating creatures.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

I cannot imagine life without horses. I have been fortunate to be around these animals for thirty years.

Kristina Chancholo

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

My heart warms up when I drive throughout Woodside and I see old barns and horses in the yards. There is something very serene, grounded, natural, and spiritual about being surrounded by horses in your hometown. I love how my horse knickers at me every time I come home. I enjoy seeing folks riding on the trails. Horses bring a purity and beauty to Woodside, which can be felt. My 7-year-old niece was visiting from Arizona and after seeing a few horses in Woodside and riding a pony at Wunderlich, she said, “Now I know why they say Woodside is horse country.” I felt such joy when she said this.

What kind of riding do you do?

I currently trail ride but for 22 years I rode English. For over a decade I did post injury conditioning for sport horses in Woodside, which included polo horses, trail horses, and hunter/jumpers. I also specialized in riding and helping “problematic” horses and giving retired sport horses a new career as trail horses. Over 90% of my riding has been done on the trails in Woodside.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

I really enjoy Day of the Horse. Before I did the horse fair I was a ride stop captain for the Progressive Trail Ride and it was amazing to see all the riders and horses out in Woodside. Now I am at the horse fair and I get to see the children’s faces light up when they see the miniature horses or while they are taking a picture on a pony. It brings me such joy to see how good the horses and ponies are with the young kids and to see the “horse spark” light up in the children.

Tell us something about you and horses…

Ever since I was 12 years old, I knew I wanted to be around horses for the rest of my life. I worked at a boarding facility from ages 12-18 cleaning stalls so that I could have riding lessons. I would wash horses, clean tack, paint jumps, fix fences, etc., to make enough money so I could show. I was able to get a riding scholarship in college where I obtained my B.S. in Animal Science, with an emphasis in Equine Science. I wanted to be an equine physical therapist but at that time I was told there was no way to pursue such a career, so I became a certified Equine Body Worker. About six months after graduation, I happened to get a client in Woodside, and I had never been to or heard of Woodside before. I haven’t left Woodside since. Horses are my life. Horses are who I am.
My very first client in Woodside was the previous owner of my horse. I knew right away that my Classy Girl was a special horse and that one day she would have a forever home with me. She’s now 21.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

My equine love runs deep throughout my veins. My drive to keep horses in Woodside and to promote the awareness of how wonderful they are is my passion. I believe they are a special animal, unlike any other, and have a unique bond with humans. They are kind, gentle, honest, and I love seeing and hearing them in Woodside.

Jo Egenes

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

Horses are symbolic of being in a rural community. There’s a special ambiance with the trails along our roads and horses in backyards. WHOA! is concerned about keeping horses in Woodside. People in this community need to be more aware of horses and need to support horses if we want to maintain this as an equestrian community. We need to create interest in horses and keep that going – whether people ride or not, they can still appreciate horses, and what horses mean to our community.

What kind of riding do you do?

Now that I have turned 86, I no longer jump, so I ride out on the trail or in the ring. Being outside with the horses, I appreciate the beauty of nature. Some of the most memorable conversations with my friends have occurred while we were riding on the trails or in the ring. It’s meaningful to feel that oneness with your horse as you ride.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

Having a horse, which I so wanted when I was growing up, was not possible at the time. Then, in the 1960s I spent the summer in Dublin, Ireland and was invited to the Royal Dublin Horse Show. There I saw riders jumping horses over large fences. I was hooked and had to learn. When I returned to San Francisco, I was drawn to Woodside and the equestrian ambiance I sought, so I came to learn English riding and jumping. The rest is history. I avidly support the equestrian community and I still have horses and ride.

Tell us something about you and horses…

I started riding at age 28, and for the first ten years, I rode hunters before I moved into jumpers. I had a wonderful horse, Catch, who I began showing as a hunter. He had a great disposition and wonderful movement, and I would win with him on the flat, but as a hunter he looked awful! He wasn’t really impressed by the jumps until they were 4’ or 4’6”. Jenny Newell showed him in the jumpers, where he won his and her first grand prix against Olympic horses: They beat 32 others, and only two horses made it to the jump off, which he jumped clean for the win.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

I first became involved with WHOA! during the restoration of the historic Folger Stable, and one thing led to another. I am concerned about keeping horses in Woodside. For many years, WHOA! volunteers have taken welcome baskets to anyone who moves to Woodside. It’s a way to not only welcome new residents but also help educate them about our equestrian community.

Julie White

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

I love the trails that take you to magical places in the forests. I also enjoy trailering into Wunderlich Park and trail riding through the Santa Cruz Mountains up to Alice’s Restaurant on Skyline Blvd.

What kind of riding do you do?

Eventing, dressage, jumping, trail riding, and occasionally hunting — really any opportunity to be astride!

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

Eventing at Wild Horse Valley Ranch on a 12-hand pony as a little kid.

Tell us something about you and horses…

Do you mean other than that horses feed my soul? I find them to be the greatest teachers in the world, and I will never stop learning from them.

Sarah Rivers

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

I love the passionate horse community of Woodside. Horse owners, and those who appreciate horses from afar, recognize the critical role horses play in helping define the rural lifestyle of our town. The equestrian trail network is beautifully maintained by the Town of Woodside, and demonstrates a commitment to the support of horses in Woodside by the Town Council and local government.

What kind of riding do you do?

I am a lifelong trail rider, and enjoy riding on the local public trails in Woodside and Portola Valley as well as in our local county parks. I am a horse camping enthusiast and enjoy taking my horse to sites all over California … Point Reyes, Sierras, Humboldt Redwoods, Morro Bay and others are favorite destinations.

Tell us something about you and horses…

I have a handsome buckskin gelding, Queso, who is half Arab and half Quarter horse. We have been together for ten years, and I hope we have many more adventures together in the years to come. He is a terrific camper, enjoys exploring, and is the best equine partner I have had the pleasure of owning.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

I am a longtime (30+) year resident of Woodside, recently retired and immensely enjoying my affiliation with WHOA! I have served on the Town of Woodside Trails Committee, and been a Board Member of the Woodside Junior Riders program. Queso and I are active members of the San Mateo County Volunteer Horse Patrol, the Los Viajeros riding group and are members of both San Mateo County Horsemen’s Association and Back Country Horsemen of California.

Kathleen DiZio

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

I love the peaceful ambiance, sense of tradition and community horses bring to Woodside. The beautiful landscapes and equine culture combine to make horse-related activities a source of relaxation and enjoyment. In the fast-paced world of the Bay Area today, it is important to pause and think about the ways in which we can preserve the special connection that Woodside has with horses.

What kind of riding do you do?

Trail riding.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

As a youngster, galloping astride my bareback horse, dropping the reins, putting my arms out, and closing my eyes.

Tell us something about you and horses…

I have a lifelong passion for horses. Horses give me immense joy and connection. I love that they always require you to be mindfully present. This creates a state of flow when I’m with a horse. My goal is to be an ambassador for these amazing animals.

Munish Manrao

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

I love how horses are at the heart of Woodside’s culture and community. The town’s extensive trails, open spaces, and equestrian-friendly atmosphere make it a truly special place for horse lovers. Whether it’s seeing riders on the trails, participating in events like the Day of the Horse, riding in costume for the progressive trail ride , or just being part of a community that values these incredible animals, there’s a deep connection between Woodside and its horses.

What kind of riding do you do?

Trail riding.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

There are too many to list but one of my favorite equestrian experiences was getting back into riding after years away, all because of my daughter’s love for horses. Watching her passion grow reignited my own, and before I knew it, I was back in the saddle, training for my first men’s barrel race.

Another unforgettable moment was when Bling, who is not a barrel horse, surprised us all with her determination during a practice run. Just when we thought the run was over, she found an extra burst of energy and helped my daughter finish strong. Moments like these remind me how incredible horses are—not just as athletes, but as partners who teach us resilience, trust, and the joy of the ride.

Tell us something about you and horses…

I started riding in my 20s, drawn to the thrill and connection of being on horseback. But as life moved forward—with work, family, and responsibilities—riding took a backseat. Years later, everything changed when my six-year-old daughter, out of nowhere, looked up at me and said, “I love horses” and began to tear up. In that moment, my passion was reignited. Watching her discover the joy of riding brought me back to it, and now, horses are something we share. Whether we’re training, competing, or simply enjoying the ride, they’ve renewed my love for them.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

Horses have brought my daughter and me closer in ways I never expected. Riding has given us a shared passion and a space where experience and skill matter less than trust and teamwork. When we ride, we’re equals—learning, growing, and encouraging each other. Whether training, competing, or enjoying a quiet trail ride, these moments have strengthened our bond, giving us time together and a deeper connection as father and daughter.

Don De Franco

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

Horsing around. I love seeing neighbors and friends walking around in riding clothes and pulling horse trailers – a wonderful sense of community. It’s nice not to be the only one with hay in my hair. It’s a magical place where so many equestrian activities are happening that it’s difficult to make a choice.

What kind of riding do you do?

Hunter Paces back East, but mainly trail riding and occasional jumping. My idea of heaven is riding in the woods. That picture hasn’t changed since I was ten years old.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

Taking my 4-H Advisor’s retired 25-year-old gelding out of retirement and winning the Ohio State Fair on him.

Tell us something about you and horses…

I’m an overgrown 4-H kid from Ohio/Kentucky and was infected with the horse bug as a child. My family wasn’t “horsey” and had no idea what to do with me … luckily adults stepped in and made it happen for me. That’s what I’m paying forward now.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

We have 5 horses, two of which have been with us for decades. They are part of our family.

Fawni Hill

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

Riding on the trails in Woodside and Portola Valley and passing other riders brings back fond childhood memories of growing up in a rural area. I love the peace and serenity of that rural feeling even though we live in the heart of an intense urban environment.

What kind of riding do you do?

Trail riding with a destination in mind is a favorite. We love riding to local restaurants and tying up our horses while we eat. Places like Bucks, The Little Store, Alice’s and Parkside Grille all have tie racks, and we can keep an eye on our horses while we dine. Our horses also travel with us to destinations such as Monument Valley, Texas, Arizona and have been all over the state of California, taking us to places we would not have been without them.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

It would be impossible to select a favorite experience as they are all unique and rewarding. Most of the year, we enjoy riding through the local parks as ambassadors for the Volunteer Horse Patrol, and introducing children and adults to horses. They are amazed to see horses and to be able to touch them. The smiles are priceless. We also patrol and search on horseback with the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Mounted Search and Rescue unit. In the summer we spend time at a camp in Idaho introducing inner-city children and families to horses and taking them on rides into the national forest.

Tell us something about you and horses…

My riding experience began on our family ranch and I was helping with chores on horseback when I was eight years old. When I was old enough, I joined 4-H, rode in parades, gymkhanas and learned trick riding. Horses were my passion then, but I left that behind for many years and moved to the city. I missed that connection and after years without horses in my life, I am now enjoying my love of horses again.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

Horses are magical creatures with enormous healing power that I have witnessed many times.

Linda Fox

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

It is one of the reasons we moved to Woodside, so to see horses out and about on the trails makes me happy!

What kind of riding do you do?

Reining!

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

Mick and I both have a Palomino Quarter Horse, they are half brothers which was a coincidence as they were purchased a year apart. They totally act like brothers!

Tell us something about you and horses…

Our youngest daughter rode at a very young age. Mick and I were at the barn so much that we started riding too. We leased horses, then eventually bought our own, starting in the hunter/jumper world and evolving to western riding which we still do together 20 + years later!

Anne Van Camp

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

As a resident of Woodside, I love that so many organizations AND the town have the best interest of horses and equestrians in mind. Having Wunderlich, Huddart AND the Horse Park, literally in our back yard, is just amazing. In addition, I LOVE the unique trails system, both public and private. I love the numerous equestrian specialties represented in Woodside and am hopeful that horses will continue to be present in Woodside in the future.

What kind of riding do you do?

My husband and I do mostly trail riding with occasional dressage lessons in the ring at our home, and attend various clinics. Occasionally, we trailer to discover other places and enjoy new experiences. I’m interested in doing obstacle courses and going to a clinic soon.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

Where else can you ride your horse to work? I have been volunteering for many years at NCEFT and frequently ride my horse, Prime Delivery, from our house to the ranch on Runnymede, have him in a paddock while I do my volunteering tasks, then ride him back home. Being part of their program and seeing what the connection of horses can do for children and adults is a true privilege.

Tell us something about you and horses…

I was introduced to horseback riding while teaching at sports camps in Belgium and rode dressage, together with my husband, both in our early 20s. Now, in our late 50s, our daughter presented a 5-session riding class at Webb Ranch, as a Mother’s Day gift. The rest is history and we are fortunate to own a private barn in downtown Woodside.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

My dream for the horse community in Woodside and surrounding area is that the many organizations can continue to work together, streamline their efforts and funds, and preserve this unique place for future equestrians.

Adeline Forrest

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

Woodside has always been seen as Horse Heaven: the hardware store sells tack, the trail system is unique and wonderful, there are horse traffic signs, there is a beautiful horse sculpture as one enters the town , and Huddart and Wunderlich Parks are a trail way. Plus, the multi-use Horse Park is nearby. I love to see horses crossing past Robert’s Market or Wells Fargo Bank. The presence of horses makes this town really special.

What kind of riding do you do?

I have always ridden Western. I have showed a little in Western events, and I love to go horse camping with my friends in Los Viajeros Riding Club. I like move cattle on ranches, and I like to sort and cut cattle out of a herd. I do a lot of trail riding in Woodside.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

My father bought me a horse when I was eight. We kept her in a 100-acre pasture near our house. I rode bareback for two years until my parents could afford to buy me a saddle. A bunch of girls and I rode all day long, every day, in the summers. We swam our horses in a reservoir. We rode downtown in Orinda, tying our horses at the oak trees next to Lucky’s.

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

When I was a girl, my dad would trailer me to a few Western shows where I would participate in gymkhana events. At the time, I belonged to Moraga Horseman’s Association. I thank my dad for this lifelong love of horses.

Faye Brophy

What do you love about horses in Woodside?

Woodside has always represented a rural setting which is hard NOT to love! Horses typify this area with its existing pastures, barns and riders going down its town trails.

What kind of riding do you do?

I am strictly a trail rider who feels so grateful for all the wondrous wilderness trails among the redwoods and California oaks in our coastal mountain range, so readily accessible without the use of a trailer.

What is your favorite equestrian experience, or favorite horse story?

Mine is simply having gotten into riding in my mid 50’s. I was and am still thrilled to ride from the barn, up into Huddart Park along woodland trails up to Skyline surrounded by all the coastal flora. It’s still a thrill to me, especially having experienced so many other riding experiences. We are so lucky to have the trails here that we do!

Tell us something about you and horses…

Having not made the wisest choice to get a very young horse as my 2nd horse, I have now personally experienced what it means to understand the difference between raising dogs and horses. Most dogs will learn because they basically, instinctively trust humans and are so willing to please. Humans need to earn the trust from horses, before the horse can learn. It’s this trust that allows humans (who are 10-20% the size of a horse) to communicate with and train such a large beast.