Clean Sweep Farm

Congratulations Sarah!

2012-02-08T11:51:00.001-06:00

Sarah, Ryan & Pat

Congratulations to CSF rider Sarah on winning the Mid-America High Point Championship for Show Pleasure, 13 and Under!
Several members of our barn family attended the banquet to cheer Sarah on. There was great food and lots of dancing at this fun event.

This is an annual event and everyone should make sure to mark their calendars for the 2013 banquet!

Congratulations Sarah!

2012 Show Season is almost here!

2012-02-04T15:29:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe but it is time to start planning for the 2012 show season! Lots of riders have been getting ready: getting new suits; getting suits altered; and learning a lot! And we are almost to the first shows!

Check the bulletin board at the barn for the first show sign-up sheets:

Mid-America Spring Show, March 30-April 1, Roscoe, IL
UPHA Chapter 10 Spring Show, April 27-April 29, Roscoe, IL

Any questions, check with Curt!

Just a Friday night at the barn....

2012-01-27T18:31:00.000-06:00

Pat enjoying the dogs

with the dogs!

Welcome Percy!

2012-01-22T16:52:00.000-06:00

Ryan and Percy

Another new horse arrived at Clean Sweep Farm this week. Curt & Ryan have purchased a new three-year-old chestnut saddlebred named Unbridled Charm. Around the barn he will be called Percy. He came all the way from Kentucky. Ryan and/or Pat will be training him and showing him this season.

Welcome Percy!

Abby and Brew

2012-01-04T10:26:00.000-06:00

Abby & Brew

Congratulations Abby! Abby and family are now the proud owners of Brew. Brew may look familiar to you - her previous barn name was Maple.

Brew is a 11 year-old Saddlebred mare. She won the world championship in 13 and under Country Pleasure in 2007.

Abby can't wait to start riding Brew and showing her this upcoming season!

Welcome Kisses!

2011-12-29T16:23:00.000-06:00

Maddie and Kisses

Congratulations to Maddie on her new horse, Kisses!

Registered as City Kiss, Kisses is a 3 year-old (soon to be four year-old) Saddlebred mare. She just arrived at CSF on Tuesday.

Maddie can't wait to ride her new horse at shows next show season!

Welcome Kisses and congratulations Maddie!

Hugging Kisses

New Horses!

2011-12-24T12:05:00.000-06:00

Chewy

You may have noticed some new horses at the barn these last few weeks. A few new residents have moved in!

Dodge is Sarah's trail horse who will be here for a while to get some training.

Boo

Dodge

New Saddlebred Blog!

2011-12-12T12:00:00.000-06:00

The American Saddlebred Horse Association is starting a blog on their website: http://www.asha.net/blog

Featured in this week's blog is the first in what will be a series of entries about a three-year-old American Saddlebred filly, who began as a show horse, but is now learning how to jump. ASHA plans to have future blog posts on a wide variety of fun facts & helpful topics. They are also taking suggestions and guest submissions. If you have something you'd like to suggest, you may email Michell Krentz @ michellek@asha.net.

Ryan giving lessons

2011-11-09T17:20:00.001-06:00

Photos of Perry

2011-11-06T15:35:00.002-06:00

Shea and her favorite guy

Thank you, Ronnie, for sharing these beautiful pictures of Shea and Perry. You can just see the love between girl and horse.

If anyone has photos of Perry they would like to share, please let me know and I would be happy to post them.

Shea and Perry

Perry Passes Away

2011-11-06T12:14:00.001-06:00

Perry

Everyone's favorite horse, Perry, passed away this morning. He went out to the paddock for some quality running around time, enjoyed a nice canter, and then he was gone.

Curt has had Perry since he bought the Clean Sweep and has been one of Curt's favorites ever since. Perry taught countless children to ride & care for horses. Perry never wanted to retire, and was always happiest when he had a job to do. And for so many children, that job was to teach them. He always did a great job and was loved by everyone.

Good-bye, Perry, you were loved and will be missed.

New School Barn Tack Room!

2011-11-04T18:58:00.002-05:00

Check out the new tack room Kevin is building! It will sure be nice. Thanks Kevin and also Oscar for helping!

Curt's Blue Ribbon Lap - Caught on the news!

2011-11-04T16:49:00.000-05:00

A Springfield, IL television news story was doing a story on the Mane Event and interviewed one of the rider's from Curt's class. Fortunately for us, they caught Curt's victory lap and included it in the news story:
WICS ABC NewsChannel 20 - Top Stories - Horse Show Means Big Business

November Rider of the Month - Clarice

2011-10-31T08:37:00.000-05:00

Hi! My name is Clarice. I’ve been riding at Clean Sweep since 2006. The first horse I ever rode there was Bear. Since my first lesson, I’ve been hooked! I’d rather be at the barn than anywhere else.

I attend Whitewater Middle School. I have many interests and hobbies like reading, swimming and playing video games. I have a cat named Lizzie and love my golden retriever, Millie.

Of course, my favorite activity is riding. I love riding my horse Fairy and had a great time this season showing Daisy! Both horses have taught me how to be a better rider and I really enjoy lessons with Pat and Ryan.

I had a great summer which included horse camp and a trip to Louisville to watch the World Championships. It was a great experience and I hope to show there next year.

From the Mane Event

2011-10-25T11:00:00.002-05:00

Congratulations Sarah!

Congratulations Curt!

Spooktacular Horse Show!

2011-10-22T20:42:00.000-05:00

It is October, so that means it is time for West 20's Annual Spooktacular Horse Show! This show is really fun and has regular horse show classes in the morning and continues into the afternoon with the ever popular costume class and fun game classes! Several of our riders participated and had a great time! Jenny even brought CH Parlay!

Check out the picture.... Doesn't everyone look like they are having a great time!

Thanks to all our helpers today: Jenny, Chantal, Oscar, Carrie, Lora, Maddie, Lindsey and all the parents!

Painting O'Santana

Painting Santana

Louie!

Scooter Skywalker and his Princess

Jenny in her black hat

Beauty & the Beast

The Black Princess

Pioneer Girl

Good looking group!

Egg and Spoon race - our riders are all out - that is a hard game!

Customer Appreciation Party!

2011-10-21T18:49:00.000-05:00

Last weekend was the CSF Customer Appreciation Party, and wow what a night! Everyone enjoyed the food, the music, the pinatas, and camaraderie! The arena was transformed into a fall holiday party room. We hardly recognized the arena with all the wonderful furniture & light colored shavings.

Thank you Curt & Ryan for putting on such a wonderful evening! And to all the people who helped make it possible - Janet for all her wonderful organizing, and Lora, Jenny, Pat, Liz, and everyone else who cleaned and helped get everything ready.

It was sure a great evening!

MId-America Mane Event Horse Show - Live Streaming Video

2011-10-20T09:14:00.002-05:00

Good Luck to CSF riders and horses this weekend at the Mid-America Mane Event Horse Show in Springfield, IL.

The show will be webcast live at the link above. Here is an approximate class listing for our riders and horses - any errors in listing are all mine. Any corrections, send me an email!

Thursday Afternoon - Classes begin at Noon
Class 7 - Three Gaited Junior Horse - Bella
Friday Afternoon - Classes begin at Noon
Class 46 - Three Gaited Junior Exhibitor - Sarah & Bugsy
Class 50 - Show Pleasure Driving - Curt & Burt
Class 52 - Show Pleasure Three Gaited Junior Exhibitor - Sarah & Princess

Saturday Afternoon - Classes begin at Noon
Class 90 - Park Pleasure Three Year Old Classic - Katie

Sunday Morning - Classes begin at 10:00 am
Class 121 - Show Pleasure Three Gaited Junior Exhibitor Championship - Sarah & Princess
Class 129 - Three Gaited Junior Exhibitor Stake - Sarah & Bugsy
Class 131 - Show Pleasure Driving Championship - Curt & Burt

Good luck everyone!

UPHA Chapter 10 Saddlebred Fall Horse Show

2011-10-11T10:28:00.000-05:00

Several of our riders participated in the UPHA Fall Saddlebred Horse Show this past weekend. The barn brought home several nice ribbons! And everyone had a nice time. It was the last show of the season for several riders. Congratulations, everyone on a job well done! And for those of you not showing any more this year, good luck next year!

And a special thanks to Pat, Jenny, Oscar, Chantal, Adele, and Maddie for helping out!

Congratulations Abby!

Abby's blue ribbon ride

Faith and O'Santana

Kileigh and Starlight

Maddie & Adele

Maddie & Pat celebrating a win!

Maddie & Maple

Teammates coming to wath and support CSF!

Smile Rosie!

Hailey and Rosie

Crowded warm up arena during the academy classes!

Adele and Tigger

Faith and her blue!

October Rider of the Month - Becca Whitty

2011-10-04T09:13:00.000-05:00

Hi! My name is Becca Whitty. I am 15 years old and attend Fort Atkinson high school where I am currently a sophomore. I have been going to Clean Sweep for 4 years, and own a 7 year old Norwegian Fjord named Spencer. Riding isn't all I do though. I have many hobbies including: photography, dance, show choir, and FAHS poms squad! I enjoy all these activities and hope to continue all of them for a long time!

Fixing the School Barn

2011-09-26T21:31:00.000-05:00

Work has begun on fixing the damaged roof & siding on the school barn. We all remember the large hole from the tree that fell and narrowly missed Zoe!

The repaired barn will look very nice when it is done!

It is funny how the horses react to any change in their usual scenery. When I was walking Louie down to the field, he did not want to go past the piles of building materials and "his" barn that did not look the same! Our Louie put on his show horse ways and got wide-eyed, did a lot of snorting, extended his neck way up, and had very attentive eyes! Kind of unlike our usual loveable, laid back Louie!

Prince, a new lesson horse

2011-09-26T21:21:00.000-05:00

You will be seeing a new lesson horse around the farm - Prince arrived two weeks ago. He is a very friendly and gentle quarter horse. I think everyone will enjoy riding and loving him! Welcome him with a carrot or a peppermint!

Wisconsin Futurity

2011-09-26T21:16:00.000-05:00

Curt's winning ride on Tracker

Congratulations Clean Sweep Riders for a fantastic show this weekend at the Wisconsin Futurity in Madison, Wisconsin.

Clarice & Daisy

Pat & Hoops

Sarah & Bugsy

Curt & Unique

Sarah & Princess

Emily & Latte

Great Job Everyone!

Wisconsin Futurity Horse Festival

2011-09-20T21:36:00.002-05:00

Come watch & cheer on Team Clean Sweep this weekend at the Wisconsin Futurity Horse Festival in Madison this Thursday - Sunday, September 22-25 at the Alliant Energy Center.

We have a lot of horses & riders competing this weekend. Stop on by, watch a really fun horse show, and cheer our riders on!

Good luck everyone! Have a great weekend.

Save the Date - Customer Appreciation Party!

2011-09-20T21:26:00.001-05:00

CSF's Customer Appreciation Party is scheduled for October 15th, 2011 @ 6:00 p.m.

Ryan, Curt, and staff would like to have the entire CSF family join them for a fun night at the farm.

There will be food/drinks and weather permitting a bonfire.

We are looking for some kind of musical entertainment, so if anyone has some ideas please let Curt or Janet Sturm know!

It will be a great time - Don't miss it!

Fall means Trail Riding Time!

2011-09-07T20:52:00.001-05:00

UPDATE: The sign-up sheets are at the barn - there aren't many spots left - so if you want one - hurry!

Fall is here again, and that means it is time for those super-fun trail rides!

Curt is putting together a list of people who are interested in going on one of the rides. So, if you are interested, talk to Curt as soon as possible. Once he has some riders, he will begin to put together a list of dates.

This year's rides will be grouped by ability. If you have any questions about which group you'd be in, talk to Curt.

It will be a great time!

Good-bye Zorro and Patches

2011-09-07T20:48:00.002-05:00

Two of Clean Sweep's longtime residents, the cat Zorro, and Patches the Bunny have both recently passed away. Curt had these two pets since he purchased the farm.

Zorro was a funny cat who always stayed in the hay loft. Maybe he enjoyed finding lots of mice up there? Or maybe he just liked to have his barn friends come and visit him. Zorro was a brother to CSF's other cats.

Everyone loved Patches the Bunny. It was always so nice to open the office door and have Patches greet you! He enjoyed being played with by all the children who come out to the barn. He enjoyed getting the occasional treat, maybe a carrot, or some other delicious morsel!

Good-bye Zorro and Patches! We will miss you both.

Congratulations Emily!

2011-08-27T15:36:00.000-05:00

Congratulations Emily on your 6th place in the Championship Country Pleasure, 13 and under class!

Sarah's interview with National Horseman Magazine!

2011-08-25T10:50:00.000-05:00

Watch Sarah's interview with National Horseman Magazine after her win on Princess!

Congratulations Sarah!

2011-08-23T20:09:00.000-05:00

CSF has its first World Champion so far this year - Sarah won this morning with Princess! Congratulations Sarah!

WCHS Streaming Link

2011-08-20T15:54:00.000-05:00

The United States Equestrian Federation will be webcasting the entire WCHS on ASHALive!

As a reminder, our barn will begin showing on Monday morning right away at 8:00 am. Check the blog post below for the class numbers.

Good luck CSF!

World Championship Horse Show, August 21-27, 2011

2011-08-16T09:14:00.002-05:00

Several of our Clean Sweep riders will be going on the trip of a lifetime next week - the World Championship Horse Show in Louisville, KY.

Luckily for those of us who have to stay at home, the ASHA will be streaming the show live!

Good luck everyone!!

Here is a list of our riders and their classes.

Monday, August 22, starting at 8:00 am (central time)
Class 13 - Country Pleasure Driving: Curt & Unique
Class 32 - Junior Exhibitor Three Gaited: Sarah & Bugsy
Class 36 - Three Gaited Pony: Thunder & his former owner, Eleanor

Tuesday, August 23, starting at 8:00 am
Class 75 - Show Pleasure, rider 13 and under: Sarah & Princess
Class 77 - Country Pleasure, rider 13 and under: Emily & Latte

Wednesday, August 24, starting at 8:00 am
Class 124 - Three Gaited Park Pleasure, 3-year old horses: Pat & Katy

Thursday, August 25, starting at 5:30 pm
Class 162 - Junior Three Gaited Championship: Pat & Bella
Class 169 - Three Gaited Pony Championship: Thunder & Eleanor

Friday, August 26, starting at 8:00 am
Class 192 - Country Pleasure Championship, Rider 13 and under: Emily & Latte

Friday, August 26, starting at 5:30 pm
Class 202 - Three Gaited Championship, Rider 13 and under: Sarah & Bugsy

Saturday, August 27, starting at 8:00 am
Class 214 - Country Pleasure Driving Championship: Curt & Unique
Class 221 - Show Pleasure Championship, Rider 13 and under: Sarah & Princess

Welcome Thunder!

2011-08-13T20:39:00.000-05:00

We have another exciting new arrival at CSF! Congratulations to Faith on her new horse, The Great Gaspar. Around the barn he will be called Thunder. Thunder is an 11 year-old saddlebred gelding. Faith is really looking forward to riding him next year in 10 and Under Walk-Trot classes.

Congratulations Faith!

Faith and Thunder

Faith's first ride

Zack Passes Away

2011-08-11T17:49:00.001-05:00

It was a sad day at Clean Sweep Farm today. Ryan's beloved Percheron, Zack, suffered an attack of colic and had to be put down.

Zack was one of the horses who gave everyone rides in the sleigh. He was a beautiful black Percheron. He will be missed.

Colic is one of the leading causes of natural death for horses. Read more about it here.

Our sympathies go out to Ryan and Curt. Also a thank you to Dr. Lisa Nesson of Irongate Equine Clinic for coming and trying to help Zack.

ASAW Summer Premier Horse Show

2011-08-09T13:34:00.001-05:00

Several of our young Clean Sweep Riders attended the ASAW (American Saddlebred Association - Wisconsin) Summer Premier Horse Show this past Sunday.

For several riders, it was their first show. Great job girls!

If anyone has additional photos to post, please email them to me. Thanks!

A lot of hard work goes into horse shows

Mid-America Signature Horse Show

2011-08-08T09:15:00.000-05:00

Adele and Clarice attended the Mid-America Signature Horse Show with Tiger and Daisy July 29-31. They braved the extreme heat, had a wonderful time & brought home some beautiful ribbons!

Adele & Tigger

Coming into the arena

Clarice & Daisy

Congratulations Clarice!

Ryan taking a break

Our awesome CSF team!

Congratulations Adele & Clarice!

Horse Camp Week!

2011-08-04T20:01:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a busy week at the barn. This was camp week for our riders. Everyone got to ride a lot, shadow our fabulous trainers, and help out with some stable chores! There was even a sleepover on Wednesday night with s'mores, tents, a horse show, and everything! And I hear that Ryan made breakfast for everyone on Thursday morning....

Crafting

A Great Group of Campers!

Horse Camp Goofiness!

Being at the barn all night is fun!

Late night "Horse Show"

At the late night horse show

Are we trotting or walking?

Louie worked hard this week

Jenny and Carrie making camp plans

On a carriage ride

Thank you Jenny, Curt, and Carrie (and everyone else who helped out) for all the hard work you put in this week! From the pictures, it sure looks like everyone had a great time!

Olive's New Pony!

2011-07-28T15:19:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Olive & her family on their purchase of their adorable pony! She is currently named Tulip, although that might change. Tulip is the family's first horse. They are very excited!

Tulip is black with a white star & white feet. She will soon be entering the lesson program.

Congratulations Olive!

ASAW Show at State Fair Park

2011-07-26T17:57:00.002-05:00

Allison and O'Santana

CSF riders had a wonderful weekend in West Allis at the ASAW Summer Fun show. There were many great rides for our riders. It was a lot of fun and everyone learned a bunch.

Thanks to our Clean Sweep Team for all their hard work in getting the horses & riders ready.

And congratulations riders!

Kileigh and Starlight

Curt's blue ribbon drive

Adele had good rides on Tigger

Faith and O'Santana

What a great weekend!

ASAW Summerfun Horse Show

2011-07-19T13:57:00.000-05:00

Sarah and Princess at Oshkosh

CSF riders will be competing at the ASAW Summerfun Horse Show this week in West Allis at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds.

Stay cool, drink lots of water & have fun everyone!

Storm Damage!

2011-07-14T19:14:00.001-05:00

The school barn suffered some damage on Monday when a tree fell into it during the morning storms. Luckily, no people or horses were hurt!

Article from The National Horseman, June Special 2011 issue

2011-07-03T15:08:00.003-05:00

The June Special 2011 issue of The National Horseman magazine had an interview with Pat and Ryan!

The article is titled: "We Just Work Horses and Have a Blast: Pat McConnell comes aboard as trainer at Clean Sweep."

A portion of the article reads:

March 1st marked the beginning of a new venture for talented horse trainer Pat McConnell after Ryan Rongers decided he needed an extra helping hand at his growing farm, Clean Sweep. "We got to talking and decided that's what we should do," said Pat of how the partnership came about.

"In the last several years my barn went through a reconditioning period," Ryan explained. "We've always had a riding program and I just put a lot of focus into that, and it really paid off. This year feels great. We have new people and a lot of new horses. We're very pleased with Pat coming on board. I was at the point where I had to make a decision. I had too much to manage. Pat and I had talked through the winter, and March 1st he started helping me train. I've known him for years so that helps a lot. We just work horses and have a blast. I"m happy, he's happy, and everyone gets along with him. It's turned out to be really rewarding."

"I'm working 16 horses right now," said Pat. "And everything is going really well. I enjoy working with Ryan, and I really like the customers. It's a good group of people."

Oshkosh Charity Horse Show, day Two

2011-07-02T04:51:00.002-05:00

What a day for Clean Sweep Riders! Way to go everyone! And good luck to all our riders on Saturday!

Pat and Bella

Sarah and Princess

Curt's Blue Ribbon drive with Burt

Maddie & Maple

Clarice's Blue Ribbon Ride on Daisy

Way to go Clarice!!

Pictures from the Oshkosh Charity Horse Show, Day One!

2011-07-01T10:38:00.001-05:00

Adele and Latte

Enjoy some pictures from the first day at Oshkosh!

Curt driving Unique

Adele and Tigger

Bouncy House Fun

Taking a break in the Bouncy House

Pat and Image

Congratulations Maddie!

Maddie and Maple

Friends hanging out

Clarice & Daisy

Congratulations Clarice!

Curt hard at work

Curt and King

Oshkosh Charity Horse Show

2011-06-29T08:21:00.000-05:00

Wish all our CSF riders who are heading out to the Oshkosh Charity Horse Show good luck! Events are Thursday-Saturday. Good luck everyone!

Open English Horse Show, West 20

2011-06-25T20:45:00.003-05:00

What a beautiful day to spend at West 20 for the All Breed Open English Horse Show today! Everyone had a great time and got to participate in many classes. There were even several saddle seat classes! Even the moms got to ride today.

Congratulations everyone for a job well done! And, as always, thanks to Jenny, Curt, Ryan, Clarice, Paris and Hailey for all the help today! (If I forgot anyone let me know & I will add them!)

And, as always, if I missed anyone, or if you have other pictures to add, please send them to me!

Lindsey & Ginger in showmanship

Organizing the Show

A Clean Sweep Lineup!

Even Moms got to ride today!

Having a good time!

Moms Line Up

Having fun at the show!

Horse Show Friends

Curt won another horse!

Go Jenny!

Congratulations Jenny!

Watch the Midwest Charity Horse Show!

2011-06-14T18:36:00.000-05:00

Since we can't all be in Springfield in person to cheer on Team Clean Sweep, we can watch them online! The Midwest Charity Horse Show has live streaming video of the classes here Midwest Charity Horse Show Live Streaming Video.

So, check out the class schedule here, Midwest Charity Show Bill, find your favorite classes, and cheer on Team Clean Sweep from home!

A New Paddock!

2011-06-12T17:55:00.001-05:00

Kevin & his paddock building crew!

Clean Sweep is getting a new paddock!

Ellen's dad, Kevin, has already made great progress - the old paddock has been taken down, and the new one is already going up.

It sure looks great! Thanks Kevin!

Out with the old....

in with the new!

Humans Keep Getting Faster - Why Not Horses?

2011-06-10T19:19:00.000-05:00

The Famous Secretariat

In honor of tomorrow's Belmont Stakes, I thought I'd post this article I ran across on Yahoo today. "Humans Keep getting Faster - Why Not Horses?"

This interesting article explains some theories about why humans keep breaking speed records, but horses do not.

Horse shoes are about the same as they were 50 years ago, so no improvements there!
Horse legs can take only so much pounding - their legs are basically just digit, one ligament, and one tendon. A person's leg injury can heal over time, but an injury to a horse's leg can be fatal.
Horses just want to run faster than the horse next to them - they don't about speed records!

Midwest Charity Horse Show

2011-06-10T13:06:00.001-05:00

Team Clean Sweep is heading out to Springfield, Illinois on Monday to participate at the 70th Annual Midwest Charity Horse Show!

Wish everyone "Good Luck" and we look forward to hearing all about it when you get back!

Happy Birthday Ryan!

2011-06-02T10:02:00.000-05:00

A Happy Belated Birthday to Ryan!

Ryan's birthday was yesterday. So, if you are out at the barn, wish him a happy birthday!

June Featured Rider

2011-06-01T07:30:00.001-05:00

Lindsey has been riding at Clean Sweep Farm since she was five years old. Her passion for horses started as soon as she met her Grandfather’s horses, and she has been hooked since!

Lindsey began lessons on Perry and Bear, and gradually moved to more challenging horses. In 2009, she fell head over heels for Ginger (Moviestark) shortly after she arrived at Clean Sweep. When asked “if you could pick any horse at the farm, which one would you choose?” Lindsey, without hesitation, replied “Ginger”. Lindsey became Ginger’s owner in May 2009.

When she is not riding or at the barn, Lindsey loves to spend time with her other animals-Lucky and Tiger, her two cats that came from Clean Sweep; her hamster named ‘Boo’ and her rescue dog, Frieda. Lindsey also enjoys spending time with her friends from the barn and school.

Update from the Arabian Show

2011-05-28T23:40:00.000-05:00

Looks Ryan and everyone are having a great time in Milwaukee at the Arabian Show!

Congratulations everyone!

Lindsey and Ginger

Go Arabian Riders!!

More horse show goofiness!

Saturday at the Madison Classic Horse Show

2011-05-28T23:29:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a day in Madison! CSF riders had a wonderful day, bringing home many ribbons! It was a very successful day and evening. Congratulations everyone!

Faith and O'Santanna

Clydesdales working out

Adele asking Tigger to be good!

Curt and Burt

Maddie and Maple

Adele's first ride on Tigger

Clarice and Daisy

Great job today girls!

Playing between classes

Pat's winning drive with Hoops

Sarah and Bugsy

Pat doing a great job coaching

Jenny and Joker

Jenny's victory lap with Joker

Emily and Latte

Emily and Latte's victory lap

Pat and Image

Congratulations Emily!

Pat and his mother relaxing after the show

End of a great day!

Madison Classic Horse Show

2011-05-27T18:39:00.000-05:00

Another weekend, another horse show. In this case, two horse shows! CSF riders are at the Madison Classic show in Madison, and also at the Badger Classic Arabian Show at State Fair Park.

Good luck to all our riders!

Here are some shots from Friday at the Madison Classic.

Maddie & Pat getting ready

Jenny working with Sarah's hair

Jenny driving Burt

Sarah on Princess

Jenny riding Joker

Maddie and Maple

The Budweiser Clydesdales are in the barn behind Clean Sweep's!

Pictures from Iowa

2011-05-22T17:13:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures from the show last weekend in Iowa. It was a great weekend for Clean Sweep Riders!

Ryan on Bugsy

Our two awesome trainers!

Goofy show humor

Pat on Tigger

Good Luck Iowa Riders!

2011-05-14T10:36:00.000-05:00

Many of our CSF riders will be traveling to Cedar Rapids, Iowa this weekend for the Great River Benefit Horse Show held at the wonderful Kirkwood Community College Equestrian Center.

We hope everyone has a wonderful time! Good Luck Riders! And a big thank you to our CSF staff for all their hard work to make this possible for everyone!

Oopsie Enjoys the Outside!

2011-05-03T18:01:00.000-05:00

Oopsie gets bigger every day!

She really enjoys being outside in the field with her mother, Fantasia.

May Feaured Rider

2011-05-01T08:06:00.000-05:00

May's Featured Rider is Peyton.

Peyton will be 11 yrs old on May 9th, is finishing 5th grade and on her way to Marshall Middle school next year. Peyton has always loved horses and began riding at Clean Sweep Farms when her “Gramma” made her dream-come-true by gifting her riding lessons for her 9th birthday.

Peyton would love to spend more time at Clean Sweep, but she’s a very busy girl. She fills her week with soccer practices/tournaments and ballet dance classes at Dance Attitudes in Janesville.

Peyton added a pet to the family last year, her Guinea Pig named Booey. She has trained him to follow her around the house (like the dog she always wanted). When Peyton’s not busy with everything else, she loves to be outdoors camping, riding the ATV, fishing and figuring out songs (by ear) on the piano and guitar.

Welcome King!

2011-04-30T16:31:00.001-05:00

Another beautiful saddlebred has arrived at CSF!

Congratulations to Faith on her new horse, King. We hope that you and this beautiful liver chestnut horse will enjoy each other for many years to come!

Congratulations Faith!

King enjoying a snack

Fantasia's Foal!

2011-04-10T14:53:00.000-05:00

Fantasia dropped her foal this morning, Sunday, April 10th at 6:00 am. The little filly was only five hours old when these pictures were taken. She was laying down taking a nap. Being born is hard work.

She is adorable!

New Lesson and Show Horse!

2011-04-10T14:50:00.000-05:00

Curt and Ryan spent part of their weekend at the Tattersalls sale in Lexington, Kentucky. And they came home with a beautiful 14 year-old gelding, Paragonian Fury. His barn name is Tracker. He is a chestnut and stands at 16 hands. He should be a great addition to the lesson program and he will also go to some shows.

Give him a carrot or a peppermint and welcome Tracker to CSF!

Welcome Bugsy!

2011-04-09T20:12:00.000-05:00

Sarah got a wonderful surprise this past week - her new Saddlebred horse Bugsy! Bugsy arrived all the way from New Hampshire. She plans to start showing him later this year.

Welcome Bugsy and congratulations Sarah!

Mid-America Spring 2011 Horse Show

2011-04-03T18:19:00.000-05:00

The 2011 Saddlebred Horse Show Season is now underway! This weekend a group of CSF riders traveled to Roscoe, IL to kick-off the show season.

Everyone enjoyed the warmer weather (remember the last West 20 show?) this weekend. There was a little rain, but overall it was good.

Our riders had a wonderful time and enjoyed themselves a lot.

I'm sure everyone was glad to get a chance to show off all that hard work over the winter. Congratulations everyone!

April Featured Rider

2011-04-01T09:22:00.000-05:00

Renae and her running family

Renae is new to the world of horses, and she has said that there couldn’t be a better place to learn the ropes than at Clean Sweep Farm.

“For me it’s as much fun to learn about horses and to participate in the care of horses as it is to ride. About two years ago I walked into the Clean Sweep Farm office with zero horse experience and signed up for a weekly lesson. The best thing that Curt and Ryan have done for me was to teach me about horses in general. Learning about horses has made me a better rider.”

When Renae isn’t spending time at the farm she’s most likely running with family and friends, which is another favorite past time for her.

Can Horses Taste the Same Flavors That We Do?

2011-03-29T18:12:00.000-05:00

Louie Eating

Yes! Well, mostly. They can taste the same basic flavors that we do, but the flavors they like are different. Which is a good thing, since humans aren't really fond of hay.

What tastes good to horses is pretty much controlled by smell. They can't see what is in their feed bucket when they stick their head into it, but they can smell that it will be good.

Horses do not like a lot of variety in their diets, either. We may like to eat different things every day, but horses prefer the same thing, every day and at the same time. This is probably a safety feature for horses, since their digestive system can be touchy and easily upset. Sudden changes in a horse's diet can cause serious illness.

Now, what about those peppermints? Don't horses love sweets? They probably like the treats since they come from their favorite humans. So, eating peppermints is more of a learned behavior. Researchers have found that horses prefer a slightly bitter flavor over sweet flavors.

Joey Eating

Becker, Marty. "Why Do Horses Sleep Standing Up?" Deerfield Beach, FL: Health Communications, 2007. Print.

Welcome Rose!

2011-03-21T08:42:00.000-05:00

Just in time for spring, another new horse has arrived at Clean Sweep! Haley's new horse, Rose, is a 4-year-old Saddlebred who has recently arrived here from Texas. Haley will be showing her in Academy classes this show season. Welcome Rose and congratulations Haley!

A Fun Day at West 20

2011-03-20T17:16:00.000-05:00

Another great day at West 20! Some of CSF's youngest riders enjoyed a beautiful sunny (almost) spring day at a horse show! For several, it was their first show. Tell everyone "Congratulations" when you see them at the barn!

Thanks to Curt and Ryan for organizing such a fun event! And to Jenny, Maddie, and all the parents who helped out!

Before show shenanigans

Playing the Limbo waiting for the show to start

Welcome Pat!

2011-03-18T10:11:00.000-05:00

You have probably seen a new face around the barn the last few weeks. Clean Sweep's new trainer, Pat, joined the CSF team on March 1st.

We've asked him a few questions which he was kind enough to answer so we can all get to know him a little better!

How long have you been working with horses?

I grew up in Kentucky. My parents were horse trainers. So, I have been around Saddlebred horses my whole life. I spent time in Versailles, Lexington, and Louisville. Most recently, I was working in McHenry, Illinois.

What is your favorite thing about working with horses?

I enjoy helping young riders gain confidence on horses and I really love it when the horse and rider suddenly start "clicking." It is a lot of fun to watch the young riders grow as horsepeople. I also enjoy starting young horses and getting them show ready.

Do you have any horses?

I have three Saddlebreds. A 9-year-old stallion named Hoops, a 4 year-old gelding named Billy Gillispie, and an 8 year-old broodmare named Shiver Me Timbers. They are all at CSF now.

What will you be doing at CSF?

I will be training horses, working with riders, and going to shows.

What is your favorite thing about CSF?

Everyone has been so nice and easy to work with. This is a very nice place to work.

Say "Hi" to Pat the next time you see him and ask him how his Kentucky Wildcat basketball team is doing in the NCAA tournament!

First Show!

2011-03-15T19:13:00.000-05:00

Many of our young riders are going to be very excited this Saturday: their first horse show! A group of young riders are heading out to West 20 to experience the excitement of their first horse show!

If you are free, come on out to West 20 and cheer them on!

Welcome Just As Unique!

2011-03-14T20:13:00.000-05:00

Another new horse has recently arrived at CSF. Adele has added another horse to her family, a beautiful 12-year-old saddlebred mare, Just As Unique. This beautiful horse will be shown this summer in show pleasure driving, and maybe under saddle. Say "Congratulations" to Adele the next time you see her!

Showring (formerly Academy) Outfitters Visit

2011-03-03T13:45:00.001-06:00

Reprinted email from Sally:

Hey there Clean Sweep Riders!! I know it seems hard to believe…but show season is just around the corner! Are you feeling the urge to do a little “spring cleaning” and maybe freshen up your show outfit?? Maybe you have outgrown your shirts and need something new? Are you new to the “show circuit” and haven’t acquired all the necessary apparel?

Well…I have the solution! Showring Outfitters (formerly Academy Outfitters) will be coming to the barn this Saturday, (March 5th) to set up a trunk show. Clothing options and accessories will be available between this Saturday afternoon and next Saturday (March 12) morning! Please swing by and check it out!! Lots of items on clearance and at reduced pricing!!

Please make sure you leave payment in the appropriate place!! Thank you in advance and happy shopping!!!

March's Featured Rider

2011-03-01T12:52:00.000-06:00

March's featured rider is Kileigh. She is 9 years old and in 3rd grade at Edgerton Community School. Kileigh has been riding at Clean Sweep Farm for 2 1/2 years and absolutely loves it.

Kileigh was pleasantly surprised with the gift of a horse last February, which she named Starlight. Starlight is a 13 year old saddlebred mare. Last summer, Kileigh's family also got two golden retriever puppies - Shiloh and Sienna. When not at the barn riding or hanging out, Kileigh enjoys dance (ballet and jazz), reading, and playing with her puppies.

CSF Banquet

2011-02-27T09:50:00.000-06:00

Last night was the annual banquet for CSF and all its riders & families. There was a big crowd and everyone had a lot of fun! Thanks to Curt & Ryan for hosting such a fun event. Thanks to Julie for organizing it and decorating the restaurant, Lora for helping decorate, and to Liz for the wonderful 2010 memory video she put together, and everyone else who spent time to make it a special night for everyone! The DJ was great and kept everyone dancing the night away!

What a crowd!

Don't eat all the cake Curt!

Doing the Macarena

The Chicken Dance!

Making a request

"The Horse" Exhibit at the Field Museum, Chicago

2011-02-24T07:26:00.000-06:00

An exhibit about the history of horses & the interaction of horse and man will be on display at the Field Museum in Chicago until August 14, 2011.

As stated on the Field Museum website:
"Explore the profound relationship between horses and humans, and discover how almost every facet of human existence has been influenced by this bond, in The Horse, only at The Field Museum.

Take a moment to learn more about the stories and science behind these legendary, irreplaceable, and alluring creatures!"

Learn more here: The Horse at the Field Museum

Beat the Heat West 20 Show

2011-02-19T18:37:00.000-06:00

What a great day at West 20! It was a little cold but everyone had a great time today at the show.

Thank you, Curt, Ryan, Jen, Olivia, Clarice, Lora, and everyone else who helped out today! (If I forgot anyone, please let me know!)

And another thanks to everyone who brought food for today's show.

Jenny hard at work

Lunch time

CSF Annual Banquet, February 26

2011-02-15T12:53:00.000-06:00

As promised here is the information on the upcoming CSF Banquet on February 26.

Dinner @ 6:30. Dance to follow. DJs Dog Days Entertainment will play until 10:00 pm.

Menu:

Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Boneless Pork Ribs
Salad Bar
Mashed Potatoes
Corn
Chicken Nuggets
Cake

Tickets are $10/adults; $7/children.

Please sign up on the bulletin board at the barn by February 23. Pay Curt or Ryan.

It should be a great evening! Lets see everyone there!

Welome Bella!

2011-02-11T08:12:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Faith and her family on their recent purchase of beautiful 4-year-old saddlebred mare, Bella. She arrived from Illinois just before Christmas. Bella is currently in training with Ryan who will be showing her this summer. Congratulations Faith & your family on your beautiful new horse!

Bella and her new family

Do Horses Teeth Float??

2011-02-08T10:53:00.000-06:00

No! But you may have heard that horses teeth need to be "floated." But what does that mean?

Floating of horses’ teeth involves filing down the sharp enamel points that have developed naturally over time on the “buccal” or cheek surface of the upper teeth and along the “lingual”or tongue surface of the lower teeth. There are several reasons why horses develop sharp enamel points.

Horses’ teeth continue to grow throughout life and the teeth are worn down by contact with other teeth. Because horses’ upper jaws are wider than their lower jaws, the upper teeth do not directly contact the lower teeth and the inside surface of the lower teeth do not directly contact the upper teeth resulting in development of sharp points.

Sharp enamel points can cause sores on the tongue and cheek lining. These sores can cause pain during eating or biting problems when ridden. Sometimes, horses with mouth pain will tilt their head to one side when eating or drop an excessive amount of grain out of their mouth when chewing. They may also have trouble keeping weight on since it hurts to eat.

Most horses need to have their teeth floated once a year. Some may need it more, others may need it less.

February is Pet Dental Month! You'll see many horses at CSF getting their teeth floated this month.

For more information, visit these websites:
Equine Dentistry
Dentistry of the Horse

February's Featured Rider

2011-01-31T17:49:00.000-06:00

Maddie J is our current featured rider She is 10 years old and is in fifth grade. Maddie has been riding at Clean Sweep Farm since she was 7. She spends so much time there now, it is almost like a second home!

Maddie got her first horse this spring, a 9-year-old saddlbred mare who she has named Maple. She can't wait to start riding her in shows. Besides Maple, she has many other favorite horses at the barn, including Louie, O'Santana, and Joey. But she loves all the horses!

Maddie & Maple

At home, she has three cats (Yankee, Doodle, and Twinkle). Besides being at the barn, her second favorite activity is reading horse books. She's read all 100+ Saddle Club books! At school, her favorite subject is science.

Blue Ribbon on O'Santanna

Her cat Twinkle

Riding Maple

New Blog Features, Coming in February

2011-01-30T17:20:00.001-06:00

Coming in February, we will have some new features for the CSF Blog. Watch for "Featured Rider" and interesting articles with horse and riding information!

Show Team this Saturday, February 5

2011-01-30T17:19:00.000-06:00

There will be Show Team this Saturday, February 5th.

See you there!

Mark Your Calendars for the CSF Banquet!

2011-01-25T17:29:00.001-06:00

It is official: the 2011 Clean Sweep Banquet will be held on Saturday, February 26. More details to follow!

West 20 Show, Saturday, February 19

2011-01-25T17:28:00.000-06:00

Clean Sweep will be attending the Saturday, February 19 "Beat the Heat Winter Show" at West 20. There is a sign up sheet on the bulletin board at the barn. If you'd like more information, see Curt or Ryan. You can also check out the show's website for additional details.

Good luck everyone!

A Horse for Abby and Shea!

2011-01-10T07:42:00.000-06:00

Joey with his bow

One of everyone's favorite horse at the barn, Joey, has a new family! Abby and Shea received him yesterday as a very special present! He even got to wear a huge bow. Congratulations Abby and Shea and we hope you enjoy sweet Joey for many, many years!

Getting a kiss!

Two very excited girls!

Equine Massage article in the Janesville Gazette

2010-12-29T17:10:00.000-06:00

If you don't read the Janesville Gazette, you missed this excellent article on equine massage. The article is about Greg Gage, founder of Therasage Equine Massage Certification School. Gage does some of his teaching at Clean Sweep. The article includes some nice pictures, all taken at Clean Sweep. Enjoy the article here!

Congratulations Joe and Jeanne!

2010-12-27T14:28:00.000-06:00

Christmas came a few months early for Joe and Jeanne this year. They've been spending time getting to know their new horses, Capote and Carmel Delight. You may have seen them enjoying their new friends at the barn. Say "Congratulations" when you see them!

Jeanne and Carmel Delight

Joe and Capote

Lukas, the Smartest Horse

2010-12-27T14:21:00.000-06:00

Spend some time this week off from school watching Lukas, the Smartest Horse!

Playing With Lukas

Show Team Reminder

2010-12-12T18:18:00.001-06:00

Hope everyone, including Clean Sweep, has gotten shoveled or plowed out after all the snow!

Just a reminder about the upcoming dates for Show Team:

December 18th
January 8th
January 22nd

See you then!

Sometimes the Adults Get to Go Riding!

2010-12-02T12:44:00.000-06:00

Way back on a hot weekend in October, a group went to Galena, Illinois for a weekend of trailriding. About time the adults got to enjoy some horse riding!

Ready to hit the trail

Beautiful Trails

A short break

Some of the Gang

The Cabin

Just in time for the Holidays....

2010-11-11T11:54:00.000-06:00

Samples of Clean Sweep apparel are now in the office! Take a look at the hats, coats, jackets, and vests. They are available in many sizes and colors, with name embroidering available.

Take a look at the samples and try a few on! If you want them in time for the holidays, make sure you order BEFORE Thanksgiving.

See Curt with any questions.

Show Team Dates for November

2010-11-09T11:28:00.001-06:00

Show team dates for November are as follows:

Saturday, November 13
Saturday, November 20

Two in a row due to Thanksgiving!

Please check let Curt know if you cannot make these dates.

November Holiday Show, November 14

2010-11-02T11:44:00.000-05:00

By popular demand, Clean Sweep is now signed up to go to the Holiday Show at West 20 on
November 14. You can look at the show bill here.

It is the same format as the Halloween Show. Please sign up early, so you can get the horse of your choice.

It will be indoors and should be a lot of fun.

If you are unable to show, please come to the show and show off our barn support of one another!

See Curt if you have any questions.

More Halloween Show Pictures!

2010-10-28T09:27:00.000-05:00

Super Scooter!

West 20 Halloween Show, Part One

2010-10-27T12:44:00.001-05:00

The pictures speak for themselves! Do you think anyone had any fun? :-)

West 20 Halloween Show, Part Two

2010-10-27T12:44:00.000-05:00

West 20 Halloween Show

2010-10-25T07:35:00.000-05:00

A big thanks to Curt, Ryan, Jenny, and Oscar for a great trip to West 20 yesterday for the Halloween Show. And of course to Sherry and Sally for helping with all the hair buns too! I think everyone had a great day and a lot of fun.

I'll be posting some pictures today or tomorrow. I'm sure I missed some good ones throughout the day, so if you've got a great one you'd like posted, send it to me via email.

Welcome Latte!

2010-10-23T16:00:00.000-05:00

Another new (or returning!) horse to Clean Sweep! Many congratulations to Allison and Emily on their beautiful new Saddlebred, Latte. I'll bet this was a show team Saturday that they will never forget! Congratulations, girls, on your beautiful new horse!

Trail Ride

2010-10-17T16:08:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was another beautiful day for a trail ride! You couldn't have asked for better weather. Looks like everyone had a great time!

Getting Louie Ready

The Trail Riding Group!

Mother/Daughter horsey fun

Curt, get off the phone!

Lunch!

Pieces enjoying a dirt bath

Merchandise coming soon....

2010-10-15T16:56:00.000-05:00

just in time for the holidays! Curt is looking to have jackets, shirts, hats, and more available. There are a few sample hats in the office now, and more will be arriving soon. So, get your holiday shopping lists ready!

See Curt if you have any questions...

Clean Sweep Farm

Congratulations Sarah!

2012 Show Season is almost here!

Just a Friday night at the barn....

Welcome Percy!

Abby and Brew

Welcome Kisses!

New Horses!

New Saddlebred Blog!

Ryan giving lessons

Photos of Perry

Perry Passes Away

New School Barn Tack Room!

Curt's Blue Ribbon Lap - Caught on the news!

November Rider of the Month - Clarice

From the Mane Event

Spooktacular Horse Show!

Customer Appreciation Party!

MId-America Mane Event Horse Show - Live Streaming Video

UPHA Chapter 10 Saddlebred Fall Horse Show

October Rider of the Month - Becca Whitty

Fixing the School Barn

Prince, a new lesson horse

Wisconsin Futurity

Wisconsin Futurity Horse Festival

Save the Date - Customer Appreciati​on Party!

Fall means Trail Riding Time!

Good-bye Zorro and Patches

Congratulations Emily!

Sarah's interview with National Horseman Magazine!

Congratulations Sarah!

WCHS Streaming Link

World Championship Horse Show, August 21-27, 2011

Welcome Thunder!

Zack Passes Away

ASAW Summer Premier Horse Show

Mid-America Signature Horse Show

Horse Camp Week!

Olive's New Pony!

ASAW Show at State Fair Park

ASAW Summerfun Horse Show

Storm Damage!

Article from The National Horseman, June Special 2011 issue

Oshkosh Charity Horse Show, day Two

Pictures from the Oshkosh Charity Horse Show, Day One!

Oshkosh Charity Horse Show

Open English Horse Show, West 20

Watch the Midwest Charity Horse Show!

A New Paddock!

Humans Keep Getting Faster - Why Not Horses?

Midwest Charity Horse Show

Happy Birthday Ryan!

June Featured Rider

Update from the Arabian Show

Saturday at the Madison Classic Horse Show

Madison Classic Horse Show

Pictures from Iowa

Good Luck Iowa Riders!

Oopsie Enjoys the Outside!

May Feaured Rider

Welcome King!

Fantasia's Foal!

New Lesson and Show Horse!

Welcome Bugsy!

Mid-America Spring 2011 Horse Show

April Featured Rider

Can Horses Taste the Same Flavors That We Do?

Welcome Rose!

A Fun Day at West 20

Welcome Pat!

First Show!

Welcome Just As Unique!

Showring (formerly Academy) Outfitters Visit

March's Featured Rider

CSF Banquet

"The Horse" Exhibit at the Field Museum, Chicago

Beat the Heat West 20 Show

CSF Annual Banquet, February 26

Welome Bella!

Do Horses Teeth Float??

Save the Date - Customer Appreciation Party!