Merlin is an extremely Handsome 16.3H, Grey, 6 y/o (will be 7 in April), branded American Warmblood by Fuerst Gotthard. A hugely talented horse that has the athletic ability to succeed at just about any discipline. Has jumped 4ft with ease schooling at home with lead changes, has jumped cross-country in Aiken SC through the Hitchcock Woods, jumps anything from any distance. I have rarely ridden a horse with such athletic ability. Lovely mover that would win both in dressage and the hunter ring with a jumping style that is a 10+! Merlin is fancy enough to do the hunters (was Reserve Champion at his first show last summer) but he LOVES and is happiest going cross country and so would excel in a variety of disciplines that cater to that type of format, from eventing to fox hunting. His trot is extremely comfortable, and his jump is careful, effortless and smooth. You can ride him cross-country on a loopy rein, gallop down to a 3ft 6” jump and never touch his mouth (although he accepts contact and frames up beautifully), but he needs a sophisticated leg to get him to perform at his top ability. He is smart and quick to learn, but can take advantage of a timid or less advanced rider, and for this reason he would be more suitable for a strong junior rider, intermediate advanced adult or professional. Presently in Aiken, SC getting some Fox Hunting exposure. GREAT feet—goes barefoot;Solid sound, VERY correct, Great Bone, beautifully put together, needs no pampering and loves turnout. Big bodied—great for a long-legged rider (male rider in some of the jump shots is 6’4”). Loads, clips, trailers, easy to catch and good for farrier and vet. Merlin will not suit everyone, but for the right rider he will be an amazing equine partner!!

UPDATE 3/26: Horse Show in the Woods, Aiken SC, placed 4th out of 30 in the Open Hunters to qualify him for the $1000 Aiken Horse Show Open Hunter Classic. Out of 15 horses and a combined score of 2 trips Merlin came in 4th!! His 2nd show ever and his first upper level competition!!
In Addtion ......
Merlin has proven to be a exceptional Hunt horse. Has hunted 2nd flight and has worked up with the master and with the hounds.

Pictures posted soon from the classic.

Fuerst Gotthard, Merlin’s sire, died last year at the age of 26 after an amazing career as a competitor and sire. As an international jumper shown under the name "The Titleist," Fuerst Gotthard won multiple Grand Prixs, World Cup classes and placed in many more classics with Olympic riders Robert Ridland, Hap Hansen and Eddie Macken. Fuerst Gotthard was one of only four stallions nationwide to receive the highest Five Star ranking in the International Sport Horse Registry’s Star Awards program, rating both the stallion and his get. For more information on Fuerst Gotthard, please see http://www.rainbowequus.com/FuerstGotthard.htm. For more information on Merlin, including additional pictures and video, please visit www.winterhavenfarms.net or call Pansy Winters at (770) 310-2954.