Lupien, aka Wiley, is Tony's combined driving schoolmaster. Wiley's first owner, Dana Pigford (Southern Pines, NC) competed Wiley through the FEI level with great success both as a single and pair. Though Tony was originally looking for a little, unintimidating pony to show him the ropes of driving he started having second thoughts about that when he took in all 17 gorgeous hands of Wiley. When he sat on the box and took the reins it was confirmed. Wiley looks after Tony and gives him great confidence while still making him work to get it just right. He brings us great joy allowing us to share him with friends and especially our children who love going for drives! Tony and Wiley successfully completed their first combined driving event, Katydid CDE, in Windsor, NC, in November 2009, finishing fifth out of nine starters! They plan to continue in Preliminary in 2010. Tony's experience with Wiley will be particularly important as Tony brings along the young irish horses at home who will drive (Woodbine Mr Bombastic and Tully Mac's Mini Cooper for starters!). Sarah is looking forward to sneaking some rides in on Wiley over the winter to see if he remembers the 2nd/3rd level dressage he worked with Dana (Pigford). Wiley is a beloved member of the Phillips family and we will always be grateful to Dana Pigford for all the help and lending she's done for us but most of all sharing her amazing horse with us.
KWPN DUTCH WARMBLOOD
