The annual Rose Parade in Pasadena has long been a showcase for stunning equestrian displays, but in 2013, a new and captivating breed made its debut: the Traditional or Proper Gypsy Cob. Hailing from the Santa Clarita Valley, specifically SD Farm West in Acton, these magnificent horses brought their unique combination of power, grace, and gentle temperament to the forefront, captivating audiences and signaling a growing interest in this relatively new breed in America. The Gypsy Cob, with its distinctive “wooly” legs and impressive build, has a rich history rooted in England, where it was meticulously bred over two centuries by generations of the Down family. Stevie Down, a legendary Romany Gypsy horse breeder, leads the original SD Farm in England, boasting a herd of around 1,000 horses. His partnership with Wylleen May, an Acton resident and fellow horse breeder, has been instrumental in bringing these exceptional animals to a wider audience in the United States.
From England to the Santa Clarita Valley: A Shared Passion
The connection between Stevie Down and Wylleen May was forged through a shared admiration for the Gypsy Cob breed and a mutual desire to see it flourish in the U.S. May’s own journey with the breed began when she acquired a filly bred by Stevie. “I just loved her look, because he has always bred them very traditional Gypsy Cob — lots of bone, lots of feather, a nice, sweet little head, and very stocky,” May recounted. This shared passion led to the establishment of SD Farm West in Acton, transforming May’s ranch into a U.S. outpost for the renowned English farm. Their collaborative efforts have nurtured a herd of 40 Gypsy Cobs, representing a significant step in propagating the breed stateside.
The decision to participate in the Rose Parade was a strategic move to introduce these remarkable horses to a broader audience. “It’s a new breed to America,” May explained. “Gypsy horses first came over (from England) in 1996, and a lot of people are still not familiar with the breed. So, we were looking for a way to get the word out, because they’re not only beautiful, but also have incredible temperament.” The parade offered an unparalleled platform, reaching an estimated 700,000 spectators along the route and millions more through television broadcasts and online streams. The sight of the sturdy Gypsy Cobs, including stallions, pulling an antique gypsy flat cart, driven by Stevie Down himself, was a powerful introduction to the breed’s capabilities and charm.
The Gypsy Cob’s Temperament and Versatility
Beyond their striking physical appearance, the Gypsy Cob’s defining characteristic is its exceptionally calm and willing temperament. This trait has been a deliberate focus of breeding by the Down family for generations. “It’s something Stevie has been breeding for, and his father and grandfather before him,” May emphasized. “They’re beautiful, but also very laid-back, very kind and willing.” This mellow disposition is evident even in their social dynamics; stallions are able to coexist peacefully with mares and foals, a testament to their gentle nature. This inherent calmness makes them not only a pleasure to be around but also incredibly versatile.
The breed’s stamina, honed for their historical role in work, makes them exceptional trail horses, eager for adventure. Furthermore, their well-structured bone and build lend themselves to disciplines like dressage. “You can just put them to anything, and they’re such a pleasure to be around,” May stated. This adaptability and agreeable nature contribute significantly to their growing popularity among horse enthusiasts looking for a reliable and beautiful companion. Their participation in events like the Hollywood Christmas Parade provided valuable training, acclimating them to the demands of parades and public appearances.
A Successful Debut and a Growing Fanbase
The effort invested by Down and May in preparing for the 2013 Rose Parade proved to be immensely rewarding. The event significantly boosted the breed’s visibility, with website traffic quadrupling on New Year’s Day alone. The influx of inquiries from individuals eager to learn more about acquiring their first Gypsy horse or seeking guidance on finding suitable animals underscored the parade’s impact. Many horse lovers, previously unfamiliar with the breed, were inspired by the Gypsy Cob’s performance and began considering a switch. This enthusiastic response has solidified the Gypsy Cob’s position as a breed to watch in the equestrian community.
The meticulous organization of the Rose Parade itself also left a lasting impression on May, a seasoned production executive. “The Rose Parade is one of the most organized experiences I have ever had — they’re phenomenal,” she remarked. “Being a logistics person myself, I really appreciate what a phenomenal job they do. It is so well pulled together, it’s just unbelievable.” This appreciation for the event’s smooth execution, even for a seasoned professional like May, speaks volumes about the dedication of the Tournament of Roses Association. For those interested in learning more about these exceptional horses, SD Farm offers a wealth of information on their website.
