LL COOL J | 8 YEARS OLD WELSH CROSS PONY | AUSTIN, TX
James, LL Cool J, is a Welsh Cross Pony Geldding. He was bred by Jennifer Wheeler Wimborne from the famous stallion Cool, who has unfortunately passed away.
James, a 13.2 bay Welsh cross, is easily recognizable with his unique blaze that goes into a snip and pink nose, and a single sock on his back right leg. But what truly sets him apart is his diva-like attitude of being extremely picky about who he likes based on the number of treats they give him, making him quite a character.
James is stabled at Monarch Stables where Cate trains with barn owner Kalli Smith and Amy Gangstad. In late 2022, while searching for a new medium pony hunter, Cate discovered James, whom Kalli had co-owned. Cate was super excited about James because she thought she would no longer be able to buy a cool pony from Jennifer since her stallion died, but fate had different plans for this pair.
James has a particular fondness for treats that can be won or purchased at certain shows, which come in a variety of flavors; however, his absolute favorite flavor is the coconut rings. Despite Cate’s tendency to splurge on Snaks 5th Avenchew fancy horse treats and other elaborately decorated snacks, she hopes James enjoys them just as much. Additionally, he is quite well-mannered and will often smile before or after eating, displaying his impeccable etiquette.
The pair have accomplished impressive results in a short time since she acquired him in November. They have secured top ribbons at Zone Finals and won several championship titles. With these achievements, Cate is focused on qualifying for the upcoming Pony Finals and is looking forward to participating in two weekends of winter series events to achieve this goal.
Cate’s love for horse riding began when she was just 4 years old and attended a riding camp at Lone Star Stables. Her first real lesson on a horse named Penny ignited her passion for riding, and since then, it has become her favorite thing to do. She loves the feeling of having a pony she can visit at the barn and ride whenever she needs it. Riding has become an essential part of her life, and she has been taking lessons ever since that first experience.
Cate’s most cherished memory with her horse James was when they won the championship at their first show. Despite having only ridden James twice before competing in the Children’s Ponies at the Southwest Showdown, Cate and James managed to secure the top spot, leaving her overjoyed. James, too, seemed to share in her excitement. This win was especially gratifying for her as her initial ride on James had been a challenging one, with him constantly bolting. This achievement marked a significant turning point in their partnership and remains a treasured memory for Cate.
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Karinda K. is a Houston, TX based equine photographer that travels around the United States photographing equestrians and their horses. Karinda specializes in Outdoor Horse & Rider Portrait sessions that bring to life the magical relationship equestrians share with their horses, Senior Portraits, and Fine Art Black & White Background Portraits for those that want a piece of art featuring their very own animals.
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