Sara Kozumplik Murphy is an American Eventer who has competed multiple horses at the highest level of eventing since she was 18 years-old. She has competed at top events throughout the world, including Bramham, Burghley, Badminton and Rolex. Sara herself is an “A” rated graduate Pony Clubber, and was one of the first people to become a certified ICP instructor in this country.
Today, Sara runs a successful equestrian business with her husband, Irish Show Jumper, Brian Murphy, at Mardanza Farm in Ocala, Florida and Overlook Farm in Berryville, Virginia. In addition to competing in show jumping and eventing, Sara and Brian run a boutique style business with a small group of clientele, offering unique training and sales services. Wordley Martin Equestrian finished constructing the outdoor ring at Mardanza Farm in 2016.
What we’ve observed about Sara and Brian over the years is their devotion to the greater equestrian community. They thrive on working together towards improving training and educational opportunities for riders – and Sara in particular, enjoys being a communal connector. Her enthusiasm and natural ability to bring together equestrians for the greater good is one of her talents.
One of Sara’s current projects is the 2020 Ocala Winter Show Jumping Series, which stemmed from a show jumping fundraiser that she holds annually for the Liz Cochran Memorial Grooms Award. At that fundraiser, Clayton Fredericks suggested that she run more schooling shows – and there the concept began to simmer.
The concept caught on with other event riders, and now the seasonal show series rotates on a weekly basis between 4 farms in the region: Fredericks Equestrian, Will Coleman Equestrian, Mardanza Farms and Notting Hill Stables. In addition, courses at each show are professionally designed by Chris Barnard (Notting Hill Stables).
What is unique to Wordley Martin Equestrian is that we designed the arenas at Fredericks Equestrian, Will Coleman Equestrian and Mardanza Farms – so we are thrilled that so many riders in Ocala will have the opportunity to ride on our footing!
In Mardanza’s recent post about the schooling shows, we were humbled by the Murphy’s commentary about our footing.
“What makes our schooling shows stand out? World class footing, jumps, and professional course design. Practice doesn’t make perfect, correct practice makes perfect. These shows set you up to compete anywhere and keep your horses jumping on the best ground. “
We want to help spread the word about this incredible series, which will give Ocala riders an opportunity to hone their skills in a relaxed environment throughout the winter season. There’s also a rumor that Sara may get Liz Halliday Sharp to host a dressage schooling show, to compliment this series. Liz’s farm, Horse Power Equestrian, is also home to two custom designed Wordley Martin arenas (dressage and show jumping)!
In order to follow updates on the 2020 Ocala Schooling Series – please visit their Facebook Page.