What’s in a Name?
As a future breeder and steward of the breed, our focus is on producing quality ponies that are conformationally balanced with good bone that display exceptional temperaments and beautiful movement, while preserving the breed type. With a limited number of ponies here in the U.S., it’s very important to us to be mindful of the bloodlines that are already established here and work towards adding line diversity without compromising health and breed characteristics.
When choosing our prefix, I knew I wanted it to be something special - something meaningful - something perfect. (I’ve been told I’m an over-thinker. I’ve grown to embrace it. It’s fine, whatever. Haha!) When I think of Scotland, I imagine it’s splendor and grandeur - the mountains, the forests, the heather-laden hills, its peaks and valleys; so I knew “Glen” had to be a part of our name.
I chose to spell “holly” differently because I wanted something unique, but I also love the spiritual symbolism of “holly” in both, the Christian and Druid, cultures.
In Christian tradition, it is a symbol of The Passion of Christ with deep ties to the crucifixion and Christmas. The sharp leaves represent the crown of thorns, the bright red berries represent the blood of Christ - shed for all humanity, and the evergreen represents His resurrection and the promise of eternal life.
Celtic tradition views the holly as a sacred symbol of fertility, peace, resilience, strength, and good luck. They also believed holly offered protection, and eternal life.
I felt it only fitting that, based off my strong Christian beliefs and my deep appreciation for Celtic tradition, and as a breeder, that I choose a prefix that encompassed the symbolism in its full capacity.
And so, without further adieu, it’s our absolute pleasure to welcome you to Glenholleigh Highland Ponies!
Our Story
Photo Credit:
Terri Cage Photography
Since I was a child, horses have always been a passion of mine. I was a horse-crazy girl whose every thought revolved around them. I dreamt of having horses of all kinds and even wanted an Arabian breeding farm, but it was just that - a dream. My parents worked hard, but were unable to afford the added expense. I’m greatly appreciative of the fact that they instilled a strong work ethic in us as kids; and they continued to support and encourage my love for horses however they could.
I purchased my first horse, an AQHA mare, as a teenager. She was quite a pistol and after I moved to Texas, she became the love of a young barrel racer. I was introduced to the sport of reining and just loved how calm the Reiners were. I knew of Monty Roberts and John Lyons, but I was also learning about Jack Brainard, Pat Parelli, Clinton Anderson, among others. I gravitated towards their methods and ideologies on training.
As I got older and my life began to unfold, I became content with just having a horse to enjoy. I looked forward to a more leisurely equine lifestyle.
At the time, I had a wonderful reining-bred mare that I sold to my best friend back home. I had made up my mind that I was going to use this time to indulge in some dressage lessons - something I’ve always had an interest in doing.
Before too long, I realized I just couldn’t do without having a horse of my own. As an avid “Outlander” enthusiast, I decided to research other breeds native to Scotland. I had already known about Shetland Ponies and Clydesdales, but not the Highland or Eriskay ponies. The more I learned about Highlands, the more intrigued by them I became.
Before I knew it, that was it. The hunt for a Highland was on.
I was pleasantly surprise to find breeders here in the U.S. and reached out to a couple. That’s where our Highland journey began.
I have had the pleasure of owning some pretty amazing horses over the years, but none had stolen my heart quite like the little cream dun Highland pony colt, Lagniappe Brody, when he made his entrance into this world. Once his breeder sent me a picture of him, my heart melted and I knew there was no turning back.
Once Brody arrived in Texas, I couldn’t imagine having any other breed. He was everything I ever dreamed of and more.
What began as a childhood passion has evolved into something more. Sharing this breed is not just my passion - it is my purpose. It’s important to me that anyone who is interested gets to experience these rare, special ponies, which is why I proudly serve as an Officer with HPECA.
We’re proud of where we’ve been; and with a very grateful heart, and the opportunity to acquire one very special filly, MacCrimmon Isle of Skye, we are even more excited for what’s ahead.
We look forward to sharing our Highland journey with you!
Organizations & Links
Highland Pony Society
