Our Muses
In the year 2000, The Equine Sanctuary welcomed its first special residents—Adalenia, her precious filly, and the Black Breeze. These remarkable horses were not just the beginning of our journey; they became our Muses. The memory of their resilience continues to inspire and uplift everyone at the sanctuary, embodying the very spirit of hope and renewal that drives our mission every day.
In Memory of Adalenia
Adalenia once dazzled as a flash of white lightning on the prestigious forty-goal Argentine polo fields. Her breathtaking beauty and unparalleled talent quickly captured the attention of discerning Americans seeking elite polo horses of Argentine heritage. Imported and showcased in America’s top polo matches, she was a shining star destined for greatness.
Yet, fate had a different plan. A tragic accident left her front leg permanently injured, a cruel twist for a horse whose spirit had once soared with unmatched grace and power. Despite the pain and challenges, Adalenia’s journey from glory to struggle is a poignant reminder of her indomitable spirit and the enduring beauty that remained within her.
After her accident, Adalenia's once-glorious athletic career gave way to life as a brood mare, a path often taken by injured mares. Two years into her retirement, Alexis Ells, founder and director of The Equine Sanctuary, found her in a heart-wrenching state—struggling on three legs, about to give birth, and alone in a pasture.
Alexis helped deliver her precious foal and in that pivotal moment, a bond was forged. The Equine Sanctuary became not just a refuge, but a new beginning for Adalenia and her newborn filly. Here, they found the safety and care they so desperately needed, and a place where their journey of healing and hope could truly begin.
Every effort was made to ensure Adalenia’s quality of life, and over the next two years, both she and her filly flourished in the care of The Equine Sanctuary. Yet, despite the love and every possible rehabilitation protocol, the relentless pain from her injury continued to grow, casting a shadow over her life and wellbeing.
Eventually, the pain became unbearable, and Adalenia faced the need for extensive surgery. In a moment of profound hope and determination, Dr. Doug Herthel, DVM, from the esteemed Alamo Pintado Equine Hospital in Santa Ynez, CA, performed a heroic five-hour surgery. His skilled hands, cutting edge approach and compassionate heart were the beacons of hope Adalenia needed, offering her a chance to reclaim comfort and peace in her life.
After three weeks in ICU, Adalenia’s prognosis was positive. She was to be released within a short period of time for a three-month cast recovery at The Equine Sanctuary. During her first routine cast change procedure, to everyone’s shock and dismay, her hoof completely detached and fell into the hands of Alexis and Dr. Herthel.
The extensive surgery had compromised the integrity of the vascular system, blocking the crucial life-sustaining blood supply of the foot and hoof wall.
Adalenia’s indomitable spirit had infused her caregivers with hope that she would once again be able to grace us with her presence and run pain-free through the green pastures. Sadly, that was not to be her fate. Adalenia lost her battle for life on June 20, 2003. The Equine Sanctuary has been dedicated to the memory of this beloved horse, who was an inspiration to all that knew her.
In Memory of Black Breeze
As a young Canadian filly, Breeze’s talent and beauty was evident to the knowledgeable eye. Purchased as a three year old, Breeze ultimately became an international polo horse. She played high goal polo for many years and was “one in a million” as they say….a child could ride her or she could carry a ten-goal player to victory.
Her polo career lasted an unheard of seventeen years, till a final fall affected both her knees. Unsuccessful as a broodmare, Breeze was left without a “job”. Alexis Ells had long admired Breeze and offered to take her along with Adalenia and the new filly. Hence the original three opened The Equine Sanctuary’s gates in May of 2000.
Breeze became an amazing surrogate mom to Adalenia’s filly. They were inseparable. With strength, courage, and compassion she mentored Adalenia’s filly into a fine young horse. They remained constant companions until the filly, at three years of age left The Equine Sanctuary to start her training. Breeze mourned the loss of her young friend for a very long time.
Competitive on the field yet caring, intelligent and clever beyond words, Breeze could untie any rope, open any gate or door and if she liked a particular horse that was tied nearby, she would free them and take them for a walk in search of some kind of adventure, usually to find grass or the carrot bin.
Breeze became the star of the therapy riding program and the educational seminars for children and adults. She always made people laugh with her silly tricks and reminded everyone that she was smarter than them.
In her last year of life, the osteoarthritis in her knees became progressively more painful, causing decreased mobility. Everything humanly possible was done for her. Acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, magnetic and laser therapies were utilized until traditional pain meds were required. Despite the pain, Breeze’s indomitable spirit and will to live kept her going longer than most horses. Adalenia and Breeze were two of the most remarkable horses that have ever graced The Equine Sanctuary’s pastures.
Breeze taught everyone - volunteers and visitors alike - the value of being “in the moment”, and enjoying the simple things that life has to offer. She never let her pain stop her from living life to the fullest. Breeze joined Adalenia in horse heaven on August 23, 2008. She was, indeed, an inspiration to all and it is for this reason that The Equine Sanctuary is dedicated to the Black Breeze as well.