Thoroughbred Incentive Program Youth Ambassadors of the Month

Meet Ella Sciog and Calista Plante!

T.I.P. presents October’s featured Youth Ambassadors: Ella Sciog and Calista Plante. Ella and Calista have both been T.I.P. Youth Ambassadors since its inaugural year, 2016. These returning Youth Ambassadors both participate in the Hunter discipline and Cali also shows in pleasure as well.

Ella Sciog (13, Florida)

Horse
Registered Jockey Club Name: Aqua Al
Show Name: Defying Gravity
Barn Name: CJ

How did you start riding?
I started riding when I was 7. I started with lessons and leasing. My mom and I went out to look at rescue ponies. We took one look at him [CJ] and knew he needed our help. That started my life of owning horses and riding more seriously.

What is your favorite thing about riding/or your horse?
My horse has more spirit and heart than any other horse I’ve ever ridden. He’s my first Thoroughbred and won’t be my last. He always takes care of me and gives it 100% at every show. People are always amazed how quiet and well behaved he actually is. When he steps into an arena, he’s on fire.

What would you like to do when you are older?
Grand Prix competitor

Photo Credit Ella/Nancy Sciog

More Fun Facts

How many pets do you have (and what kind)?
Two chihuahuas, one pomeranian, one parakeet, and three horses

What is your favorite animal (apart from a horse)?
Dogs

What is your favorite color?
Blue

What is your favorite food?
Mac and Cheese

What is one word that your friends would describe you as?
Relentless

What is your favorite quote and why?
I think this represents me and my horse, “I am thankful for those who said no to me. It’s because of them I’m doing it myself” – Albert Einstein.

What do you think the most important aspects of horsemanship are?
Understanding your horse and developing a training program that best fits their needs. Being 100% hands on.

What is one thing you would like to tell people about Thoroughbreds or the Thoroughbred Incentive Program?
Thoroughbreds are the most versatile breed of horses. While some are great at one discipline, Thoroughbreds can be great at many. The T.I.P. program is a great way to show case your Thoroughbred’s ability.

Photo Credit Ella/Nancy Sciog

Update: In the beginning of October, Ella and Nancy Sciog let T.I.P. know that CJ has found a new home. They said although it was a hard decision, they felt it best CJ continue showing and teaching young riders. CJ has been sold to a show barn in Florida and will be used for the lesson program and leased to young riders. Nancy Sciog shared, “There’s no better feeling having a group of kids ride him and watch how there misconception about OTTBs change. We are very excited to watch his next chapter”. Ella also wanted to share that this in no way changes her duties as a T.I.P. Youth Ambassador. She plans to spend the next few months setting up information booths at local events and shows.

CJ’s new students Isabelle Degina, Lindsey Cartwright and Gracie Durr. Photo by Judi Hicklin

Calista Plante (17, Maryland)

Horse
Registered Jockey Club Name: Full Rate
Show Name: Unexpected Fuller
Barn Name: Fuller

How did you start riding?
I became interested at a very young age and attended summer camps before getting my own horse when I was five.

What is your favorite thing about riding/or your horse?
My favorite thing about my horse is his personality; he’s almost like a person.

What would you like to do when you are older?
Not quite sure yet but something in the criminal justice or medical field.

Photo by Rumored Moments

More Fun Facts

How many pets do you have (and what kind)?
2 horses, 1 donkey, 1 bunny, 3 dogs, 5 cats, 3 fish, 1 goat

What is your favorite animal (apart from a horse)?
Cat

What is your favorite color?
Blue

What is your favorite food?
Chipotle Bowls

What is something unique about you?
My horse’s and I’s birthdays are 2 days apart

What is one word that your friends would describe you as?
Goofy

What is your favorite quote and why?
“The harder you work for something, the greater you’ll feel when you achieve it”. This is my favorite because I believe it’s 100% true.

What do you think the most important aspects of horsemanship are?

• Care for your horse
• Presentation
• Showmanship as a rider

What is one thing you would like to tell people about Thoroughbreds or the Thoroughbred Incentive Program?
How great the breed is and how the T.I.P. program is a perfect way for a Thoroughbred’s skills to shine.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?

• I also run track and went to states for sprinting.
• I show sheep from April to July.
• My horse hates apples, carrots, mints, etc. he only eats Dobbin’s Apple Wafers
• My horse’s best friend is a goat. Sometimes he’ll be locked in the stall overnight and I’ll go down in the morning to feed him and the goat will have somehow opened the stall and let my horse out.

Photo by Calista/Colette Plante

The Thoroughbred Incentive Program was created by The Jockey Club to encourage second careers for Thoroughbreds when their racing days are over. The T.I.P. sponsors Thoroughbred-only classes and high point awards as well as Performance Awards, special year-end awards specifically for Thoroughbreds. The T.I.P. also recognizes non-competing Thoroughbreds through its Young Rider program as well as a special award for Thoroughbreds in careers such as therapy horses or other non-profit outlets.

To learn more about the Thoroughbred Incentive Program, please visit the organization’s website.