Pancho López changed the trajectory of my life. It all started when I landed my first job at Katie Monahan’s and Henri Prudent’s Plain Bay Farm during my high school summer break in 1990. As a 15-year-old from the bustling streets of Los Angeles, I was initially captivated by the vibrant greenery of the Virginia countryside. Right out of the gate, Pancho drove us to my very first horse show in Pittsburgh. Henri and Katie finished first and second in the Grand Prix and I was amazed. The level of commitment and competitiveness that Pancho contributed to Plain Bay's operations was astounding. Little did I know that this opportunity would shape my future in ways I could never have imagined.
But first, a little background... Pancho's connection with my family goes back at least 3 generations. His family is from the same magical Mexican mountain village of Mascota, Jalisco as my mother. It’s a place where the work ethic is rooted in traditional values of the hacienda culture - hard work and cooperation.
During WW2, the US needed laborers. The Bracero Program contracted Mexicans to work in agriculture, so the breadwinners set off in search of a better life. When Pancho first came to California in the early 60s, he groomed jumpers alongside my grandfather Cornelio Padilla, great uncles Ramon Castellon and Rosendo Ruelas.
So, this induction into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame holds deep meaning for my family. We not only understand Pancho's journey of discipline and dedication to his craft, but also appreciate his generosity of spirit. He was at the root of an immigration and apprenticeship network that empowered many to better themselves by fulfilling their own potential, while also setting the standard of horse care for decades.
Pancho’s successes and leadership were widely admired. In fact, his accomplishments with Katie were so highly respected, the Smithsonian Institution spotlighted Pancho Lopez in an exhibit that celebrated successful immigrants.
Pancho shared his achievements by cultivating exceptional horsemen as he set the industry standard, while managing Hunterdon and Plain Bay Farm. Thanks to Pancho’s tutelage, my uncle Jose Padilla and Luis Hernandez became George Morris' top grooms at Hunterdon. Jose took care of Rio when George rode to win the Million Dollar class at Spruce Meadows in 1988. They say after the class Jose was doing back flips! Luis went on to take care of Royal Kaliber for Chris Kappler, winning Olympic and Pan-Am Games gold and silver medals, as well as being awarded 2003 Horse of the Year.
My other uncles, Remi, Chuy, and Antonio Padilla, also worked under Pancho’s keen eye during the peak of George, Katie and Henri’s glorious riding careers. They still talk about their favorite horses: The Governor, Special Envoy and Partly Cloudy. You may know other greats Pancho brought along: Julian Arechiga, George’s long-time trusted farm caretaker and Oscar Amaral that was at Plain Bay and Newstead for years. No matter where they are, Pancho’s protégés continue to set the bar of horsemanship.
Pancho’s style of horsemanship was classic old school. He not only taught us to pay meticulous attention to the horse’s care but time management as well, so, we could have multiple horses showing and never be late to the ring. Pancho’s impeccable eye for detail promoted care that was simple and consistent with proper leg care, physical conditioning, nutrition, paddock time, and a delicately cautious attentiveness when shipping. Horses under his management were allowed to be horses and live their best lives, which was fundamental to horses’ success and Pancho’s greatness.
His calmness in the face of challenges was distinctive. He was a true gentleman as he not only drove the tractor trailer and dealt with vets, but also led his top-notch staff and served as Katie's confidant throughout her illustrious career. He was integral to her winning: Rider of the Year 3x, The American Invitational Winner 3x and World Championship team win for US at Aachen. Through it all, I always admired his character and graciousness towards others.
Guided by Pancho's example and with the support of my uncles, I set my sights on constant improvement to become the best version of myself. Thanks to them, I received an ivy league education in horsemanship. Their lessons guide me to this day.
And then there was trainer Jimmy Doyle, another disciplinarian and task master I worked under at Mr. Gumberg’s Skara Glen stables in Pittsburgh. Working for them allowed me to continue to raise the bar of horsemanship. At my first managerial position at the Saperstein's ranch in California, thanks to Jimmy Doyle, I felt Pancho's pride and support, as he offered me some wise advice as to keep me humble that revealed his true character: "It's nice to be important, but it's also important to be nice."
All Pancho’s protegees have enjoyed many successes. For me, his leadership was the guiding force that helped me to achieve:
Managing horses showing successfully across 18 countries
Winning many big grand prix in North America and Europe, including the Spruce Meadows’ Queen Elizabeth Cup, and placing at three World Cup Finals
Hosting FEI Children Finals and various jumping clinics
Working alongside other such acclaimed riders and trainers as: George Morris, Jimmy Doyle, Ray Texel, Chris Kappler, Helen McNaught, Eddie Macken, Markus and Meredith Michaels Beerbaum
All of these experiences eventually led me to my current position, reuniting with trainer Jimmy Doyle and managing Georgina Bloomberg's road operation as well as her New York Empire Global Champions Team.
This opportunity has been incredible, allowing me to work at an elite level alongside top horsemen and riders, continuously striving to grow and excel as a horseman and leader.
Some of the highlights include Georgina's US Team bronze medal at the Toronto Pan Am Games, as well as numerous major Grand Prix wins and placings including: at WEF, and throughout Europe, as well at Global Champions Tour stops in: Monaco, London, Paris, Mexico City and Stockholm.
Georgina’s New York Empire Team has also enjoyed multiple wins, including in St Tropez, Hamburg, London and Valkenswaard.
None of this would have been possible without Pancho's influence. He has always been the standard-bearer, the torch carrier, and the guiding light for peers, family, and for myself. Like countless others in our sport, Pancho has had an incredible impact on my career and personal growth. I am extremely grateful for his generosity, leadership, lessons and above all, his true gentlemanly nature and unwavering class.
Pancho's legacy is rightfully solidified with his Hall of Fame induction, and I will continue to look up to him and honor him as a role model and as a truly exceptional human being.
*Rider Katie Monahan Prudent also spoke about how Pancho contributed to her many successes.
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