Team #802 Linda Stanfel and Amberlee
Photo by Doug Reitz, Art of Marketing
Team #802: Linda Stanfel and Amberlee
From: Cameron Park, California
Ages: 72 & 28
Combined Age: 101
Test: Training Level Test 2
Some people are just born to ride. My passion/addiction started at age five. In 1996, a fiery red-headed Thoroughbred filly was born on our small farm in Cameron Park, California. She was a handful from day one and certainly not my first choice.
For decades my career demanded extensive business travel so Amberlee spent years in professional training with me riding when I could. She was a difficult bully who threatened to rear and thus evicted from many barns. I vigorously tried to re home her with no luck. Many factors delayed our collaboration but we did not give up. Amber led me to dressage where she was most comfortable with the training methods.
10 years ago, we moved to Starr Vaughn Equestrian where Michelle Vaughn was determined to help us become a successful team. Through the patient and perseverant training, coaching, and encouragement from both Michelle and Genay we were able to complete our Century Club ride on August 24, 2024 (one day after my 73rd birthday) at Starr Vaughn RAAC 2024 with the legendary Hilda Gurney as our judge.
We successfully completed our test with family, friends and many spectators cheering us on. I am so very grateful for all those that supported Amber and me on this journey but mostly for the unwavering encouragement from my husband Paul Stanfel. My goal is to be riding like Ginny Wegener at age 95! To all who supported us on this journey, especially my husband Paul, my deepest gratitude.
