About Mary
History
Mary grew up with Arabian horses in her blood, making her a 3rd generation breeder in her family. Her grandparents, James & Wilma Wilkins, were pioneers with the first registered Arabians in Clark County, OH. They continued to breed and show these magnificent performance horses, producing notable mares like Khazol, Rasaldos Khaabbe, and Sonatina, among others.
Continuing this rich legacy, Mary's parents established Stowe Arabians, focusing primarily on the Al-Marah bloodlines. They have enjoyed success in breeding and showing at the national level, perpetuating the family tradition of raising beautiful Crabbet Arabians.
Determined to uphold this family history, Mary aspired to be a horse trainer from a young age. She dedicated herself to being in the barn 24/7, working as a groom for years at Siemon Stables. Eventually, her journey took her to Al-Marah Arabians, where, under the guidance of Gary Ferguson, her passion for reining horses flourished. After moving back to Ohio, Mary and her husband, Will, got married and established Loden Reining Horses.
Mary further honed her skills in horse training by riding with renowned NRHA trainers Bob Salyers and Brandon Brant. A few years later, while seeking advice from a mentor about a horse, she began training with Duane Esser. To enhance her background in performance horses. Mary also trained under Eugene Abello in Dressage to expand her knowledge.
While her passion lies in training, Mary is also committed to continuing the family legacy of breeding Arabian horses.
While Mary started her career in the reining arena, the push towards sport horses came from Bazy Tankersley, a significant supporter of the discipline. Mrs. T, as many friends knew her, always backed Mary in her journey and sent her AM Ionium Sea when she first began her horse training career in Ohio. Mary has always been grateful to Mrs. T for the way she helped shape her path in training and breeding performance horses.
Mary began supporting and training western dressage at the outset of the discipline and holds deep appreciation for a remarkable mare, HSA Amira Tajdol+, affectionately known as Dolly, and her owner, Bill Ellzey. Together, they embarked on an incredible journey, and while Dolly is no longer with us, Mary remembers her fondly with every trip down center line.
As the crossover to sport horses and dressage evolved, it became clear that Loden Reining Horses needed a transformation. When the chance arose for Will and Mary to purchase their current farm, nestled among towering pine trees, it marked the rebranding of Loden Reining Horses to Legacy Pines Performance Horses.
Will and Mary operate the farm together, and although it's rare to see Will at a show, he supports her at home by managing the farm, allowing Mary to travel to shows with ease.
If you are searching for a trainer who maintains a small number of horses to ensure she can personally attend to your Arabian horses every day, one who listens to each horse's individual needs and trains at a pace suited to your horse, then contact Mary today!
She always prioritizes the needs of your horse.
Highlights
Mary was voted Region 14 Sport Horse Rider & Handler of the Year in 2016. Mary showcased Koweta Trucson S+ to earn the title of 2022 USEF HOTY National Champion SHIH PB, highlighting her expertise in horse training, particularly with performance horses. She has achieved multiple SHN Champion and Reserve Champion placings, along with numerous SHN Top 10 finishes. Additionally, Mary boasts several Regional Championships, Reserve Championships, and Top 5 placements, further establishing her as a leader in the Arabian horses community. As an Independent BEMER Distributor, Mary is dedicated to helping both people and horses live their best lives. Contact us to learn more.