Individual Legion of Merit

GAYFIELDS MAGIC ME LOM (JG Cops And Robbers LOM/AOE x Gayfields Magic Wanda LOM) known to us as “Merlin”, is one magical pony and has made the dreams of one pony-loving child come true. Bred by Ron and Sue Schwartz and foaled at Gayfields, Merlin made memories in 2009 for the Lemke family that will last a lifetime. In addition to earning his LOM this year, he received national recognition from the United States Equestrian Federation, ending up fifth in the nation in the Small Green Pony division, piloted by Emma Lemke. At Pony Finals in 2009, he and Emma were 10th over fences in the Small Green division, and 12th overall. He also was awarded Reserve High Point Welsh out of the green ponies showing at Pony Finals, an award presented to Emma by our very own Dr. Ruth, which made it all the more special. So, the child who dreamed of earning one ribbon at Pony Finals ended up with two on our magical white pony. We believe that Merlin’s generous and hardworking attitude is a result of not only his outstanding pedigree, but the attentive care and training of Ron and Sue Schwartz as they showed him to the title of National Champion Section B Gelding 2 & Under in 2005. Their exceptional start to Merlin’s training paved the way for all three of our girls, Carrie, Emma and Charlotte, to be involved in his training. Whether riding bareback in the field, trotting short stirrup courses or teaching Merlin his lead changes, it was a family effort as this pony and our girls all grew up together over the last five years. In turn, Merlin helped each of our girls grow confident as riders and trainers, thanks to his generous and kind nature. We consider ourselves fortunate to be the family to continue Merlin’s winning ways. We also feel fortunate to be in the family of our Welsh friends who contributed so greatly to his success, including Sally Ross Davis of Rollingwoods Farm, and Robyn Schmidt and Michelle Caspersen of Timbercreek Stables. Our most heartfelt thanks go to Sue and Ron Schwartz who loved him and nurtured him through his first two years. We know that Merlin makes Sue smile, and we like to believe that Ron is smiling, too, at the magic created when Merlin is loved by the three Lemke sisters.