Strong independent young women is how Katie Lewis Yereance described the dedicated horse family at Sea-Vu farm. And that could not have been more obvious to see during one of my visits. It was a whirl of moving parts as horses moved from stall to training to feeding to brushing. As a novice bystander, it was difficult to follow along. But under the watchful eyes of four ambitious managers, things moved along smoothly and efficiently with horses of many colors and dispositions.

The four women who “run the show” seem to move effortlessly around and through the massive barn with 22 box stalls fully occupied. No room at the inn! The individuals pictured were reluctant to be photographed. I understand. Honestly, I’m much happier on the other side of the camera, but when gathered around one of the resident notables, everyone calmed down and tolerated Ol’ Mitch long enough for a quick group photo.

The central figure in this photo honors “Society Main Event,” aka “Evan.” He was purchased at an auction in Ohio when Katie was 15. That was 26 years ago. Evan is now 36 years old but, to my eye, passes for significantly younger. He even put up with me and the flash of my camera. I was afraid the flash might send him into orbit, but Katie assured me that it would be OK. It was. Evan has been ridden and shown many times over the years and is very familiar to all who have come and gone at Sea-Vu.

From left to right, those who tolerated my presence: Assistant trainer Annielyn Mackusic, Susan Lewis, Katie Yereance and Dawn Murphy. Dawn is a well-known figure around the Village, working at local restaurants like Fisherman’s Wharf, Rocktide and way back to when her father cooked at, of all places, Ocean Island, during the Wade lobster bake era. The huge barn and riding space belongs to Dawn. Katie leases the facility. Dawn’s interest in horses began at an early age with a much smaller barn on the property.

Sea-Vu has quite a history of producing capable riders and successful horses. One of the most notable events for Sea-Vu occurred in 2012 when five horses and 38 supporters attended the Oklahoma Morgan Grand National and World Championship Horse Show at the Oklahoma City Fairgrounds resulting in a world champion, Caroline Cadorette, and two reserve (also awarded) Hali Goodwin and Christine Bailey. It was a massive undertaking with additional championships for Brook Alley and then in 2014 for Hali Goodwin. Quite the accomplishments for the Sea-Vu village.

Students are of all ages from near and far. During my first visit, a young lady from near Bangor prepared her horse, then rode under the vigilant Katie eye. She travels with her mom twice a week for lessons. Some students own horses and some folks board with Sea-Vu. All things considered, it is a full and active facility and a lot of work, but everyone is cheerful and considerate which I believe really helps the residents enjoy their stay, exercise and training.

The horse is an amazing animal requiring consistent vigilance and care but with returns that create endearing relationships. They become unique friends and lifelong partners. Nurturing good experiences is what Sea-Vu is all about. It is a big and well-organized family.

Thanks for a remarkable visit, ladies.