On the Florida Circuit with Cedar Creek Farm

Written by Caroline Gray

This February, Cedar Creek Farm left behind the Virginia winter to head south for five weeks of competition at Florida’s top show venues. Owned and operated by Jenny and Mike Graham, the Sterling-based show barn carefully prepared for the season, training in its indoor arena and competing at the Virginia Horse Center in January as a warm-up. But unlike many barns that settle at a single venue, Cedar Creek took a unique approach, competing at three top Florida showgrounds.

They started their journey in Venice, Florida, at Fox Lea Farm’s boutique horse show before splitting up. Most horses traveled to Ocala for a week of rest, while Jenny Graham took a seasoned combination to Wellington for the World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) Week. The horses in Ocala had a full week to relax before reuniting for two weeks of competition at the World Equestrian Center.

As the Middleburg Life Florida correspondent, I had the opportunity to meet Cedar Creek Farm — my childhood barn — in both Wellington and Ocala to witness firsthand the experience of competing across Florida. Few barns manage to attend all three major shows, and it was fascinating to see how they made it happen.

Venice: The Perfect Start

The Venice Equestrian Tour provided an excellent entry point into the circuit. “Coming from an indoor, this relaxed show makes for an easy adjustment for the horses,” Jenny Graham explained. “The warm weather, great footing, and challenging courses, combined with a quiet environment, make it an ideal start.”

Rider Kristin Lee, who competed in both Venice and Ocala, had only been riding her horse, Jubilant Z (“Jujubee”), for two months. She praised the Florida circuit for giving her the opportunity to bond with her new mount. “It helped me get to know Jujubee better. Each week we improved and I was able to adjust to him and become more confident in the show ring,” she said. One of her fondest memories was winning a classic during their first weekend together in Venice — an exciting achievement so early in their partnership.

Grace Fennell and her large pony, Woodlands Bamboozle (“Buzz”), also gained confidence throughout the circuit. “We worked on new techniques to help with his nervousness, and he’s become much braver,” Fennell shared. She kicked off the season with a strong performance in Venice, securing second place in the US Hunter Jumper Association Hunt & Go Pony Derby. “I love doing the derbies, especially the victory gallop. It’s such a fun way to celebrate,” she added.

Beyond the competition, Venice provided a perfect balance of sport and relaxation. The team often wrapped up their show days with oceanfront dinners, watching the sunset over the Gulf — a much-needed reset after a long day of showing.

Wellington: World Championship Hunter Rider Week

After Venice, Jenny Graham, amateur owner rider Kerry Cole, barn manager Sarah Carr, and working student Kelsi Okun headed to Wellington for WCHR Week. Cole brought two horses: Fleetwood (“Mac”), a dark bay gelding she’s owned for over a year, and Blue Soul, a dapple gray she had only recently added to her lineup. Competing in the 3’3” Amateur Owners, she aspired to move up to 3’6” by year’s end on Blue Soul.

Cole was the only Cedar Creek rider to compete at all three venues. Reflecting on her experience, she emphasized the importance of patience and trust. “Starting these five weeks with a horse I had campaigned for a year and a brand-new horse I had only ridden for 40 minutes prior to Florida was a huge learning experience. Our teammates are animals, and we sometimes forget that,” she shared. Her highlight? Competing with Fleetwood at WCHR Week in Wellington’s International Ring. “We shipped in without any warm-up rounds, and put in great trips. Mac is a special boy, and I’m so lucky to own him.”

Ocala: The Final Stretch

The final two weeks brought the team together in Ocala, where riders took on the grand arenas at the World Equestrian Center. Sophie Lee and her horse, Dealer’s Choice (“Ace”), used Ocala as an opportunity to step up to the Children’s Hunters. As a busy junior balancing school, internships, and standardized testing, Sophie carefully managed her time. “I plan ahead with my teachers and complete my work before I show, so I don’t go into the ring feeling overwhelmed,” she explained. One of her proudest moments was a smooth trip in the Children’s Equitation, a big milestone over larger jumps in a technical course.

Meanwhile, Kate Belber and her horse, To Be Frank, competed in the Adult Amateurs. Initially, she hadn’t planned to join the Florida circuit, but after continued success in Virginia, she decided to take the plunge. “The circuit allowed me to really get to know my horse,” she said. What stood out most to her was the team dynamic. “Everyone stays and supports each other. It’s so nice to know you have a barn family that isn’t hypercompetitive.”

Behind the Scenes: A Team Effort

A successful five-week circuit requires immense effort behind the scenes. Sarah Carr, Cedar Creek’s barn manager for over 20 years, starts her days at 4:30 a.m. with feeding, hay, water, and mucking stalls. She coordinates lunging schedules, preps horses for the show ring, and ensures everything runs smoothly. “Keeping the horses happy and healthy on the road is all about maintaining routine,” she shared. “Hand-walking, turnout, and even just keeping their schedule the same as at home makes a big difference.”

Meanwhile, back in Virginia, Mike Graham manages the farm, ensuring clients at home receive top-notch care. This year’s cold winter presented unique challenges, but thanks to a strong staff, everything ran smoothly.

One special addition to the team was working student Kelsi Okun. After a successful junior career with Cedar Creek, she now works in consulting but returned to help the team for the Florida circuit before starting an externship. “It’s different from my junior days, but the experience of catch riding a variety of horses makes you a more adaptable rider,” she noted.

Looking Ahead

As the sun set over Ocala, the Cedar Creek team packed up after their five-week journey and said farewell to the Florida circuit. Now, their sights are set on the Virginia spring season.

“Spring in Virginia is the best!” Jenny Graham said. “We have top-tier shows, great facilities, and an incredible equestrian community. There’s nothing quite like coming home.”

For Cedar Creek Farm, Florida was more than a competition; it was an experience of growth, camaraderie, and preparation for the season ahead.

Photos by Caroline Gray.

Posted on: April 16, 2025