It was a double win for Taylor Bond’s Spectre at this year’s $25,000 Knightwood and $15,000 Braeburn Hunter Derbies at the Royal Horse Show in November 2023. The 10-year-old Zangersheide gelding ridden by professional Taylor Brooks, earned an impressive score of 109 in the final derby, besting their reserve score of 105 last year. The pair were also awarded the Lorna Jean Guthrie Challenge Trophy as the overall 2023 Canadian Hunter Derby Champions.
Brooks beamed with pride when interviewed about their win in front of the crowd on Nov. 7. “Spectre is just truly spectacular in every way. I trust him explicitly; he’s never let me down and he just continues to show up and exceed all expectations I could ever have.”
Since their win in Toronto, ON, EC caught up with Brooks to talk about “Harvey”, to find out more about the special horse that she has ridden to such success over the last few years.
Taylor Brooks and Spectre with Wayne McLellan
Photo Credit: Mackenzie Clark
How long have you been riding him?
I have been riding Spectre (Harvey) since he was imported to Canada as a 4 year old. Harvey and I have accomplished a lot together in 6 years, and it truly has been a privilege being his trainer right from the very beginning.
And one of your students, Ileana Pantalone also rides him in the Children’s division, when did she get the ride with him? Can you describe how these partnerships have developed?
While Harvey’s owner, Taylor Bond, had to take a break from riding to pursue her post secondary education, an opportunity to lease him within the barn presented itself.
Ileana Pantalone has been riding Harvey for 3 show seasons now, and had been showing ponies prior to being paired with Harvey. Throughout their partnership, they have progressed from the 2’6 Children’s division, to recently winning the National Championship of the 3’ Children’s Hunter division at the 2023 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
What is your relationship/how long have you known his owner Taylor Bond?
Taylor Bond and Spectre
I have known Taylor and her mom Sue for close to 7 years now, and they are so much fun to be around. They both have such a positive outlook on life and have been fiercely loyal and supportive of my training program and to our entire barn family in every way. They always put the needs of their horse first, and have always believed in the dream of developing Harvey into the National champion that he is today.
I have known Taylor and her mom Sue for close to 7 years now, and they are so much fun to be around. They both have such a positive outlook on life and have been fiercely loyal and supportive of my training program and to our entire barn family in every way. They always put the needs of their horse first, and have always believed in the dream of developing Harvey into the National champion that he is today.
Does he live at your farm? Are you his trainer? Who have you worked with on his/your development?
Yes, Harvey has always lived at my farm and I have always been his trainer. There is nobody I look up to and respect more than Wayne McLellan. He has provided strength and support when I needed it most, and I will be eternally grateful for his mentorship.
The National Derby championship would not have been possible without Wayne.
My mom, Joanne Brooks, has held the greatest influence in the development of the trainer and rider that I am today. Her training philosophies, values and professionalism have largely inspired the foundation of my program at Fox & Oak Farm.
What’s his training schedule like?
Harvey loves to work and currently gets ridden 5-6 days a week. Most of his training involves a lot of flatwork and pole exercises, with a jumping session on the weekend. He also loves going outside, so we try to provide him with as much time in the paddock as possible.
Is there a story behind his barn name Harvey?
When Taylor Bond and her family purchased Harvey, it was right around the time that the TV Show “Suits” was becoming popular. The main character is named “Harvey Spectre” and he is an extremely good looking, highly successful and utterly confident lawyer with really good (red) hair. It seemed like the perfect fit!
How would you describe his personality? Does he have any quirks?
What Harvey might lack in size (he is only 15.3h) he certainly makes up for in personality and the size of his heart! He is really affectionate and loves to lick your hands, cheek, or really anything he can get his mouth on if you let him! Harvey makes the silliest faces when the cameras are out – he is often sticking his tongue out or trying to eat his ribbons during championship presentations.
What’s his favourite snack?
Taylor Brooks and Spectre
Photo Credit: Ben Radvanyi
Harvey isn’t picky, and will eat pretty much anything! He loves anything sweet. As a special treat at the horse shows, I often buy him one of Jimmy’s oat & molasses balls and he usually devours those in less than 24 hrs.
You have done so well in the Derbys the last number of years together! What are plans for him the next few seasons?
Thank you – I am so appreciative of the partnership and connection that I have with Harvey. It is almost unheard of nowadays for owners to support the development of a young horse for a length of time like we have had, and I truly believe that our success is a direct result of that relationship and commitment to our training program. Taylor Bond has been putting her post secondary education as her top priority the last few years, but it’s time now for her to take the reins! She will make her return to the show ring with Harvey in Florida this winter, and we are so excited for her. I will still do the occasional Derby I am sure, but we are looking forward to seeing Harvey shine with his owner this season.
Taylor Brooks and Spectre
Photo Credit: Ben Radvanyi