Phil Price’s life has been a testament to dedication, resilience, and an enduring passion for horses. From his early days surrounded by the tradition of draft horses to becoming a renowned trainer in both the Morgan and American Saddlebred breeds, his journey is a compelling narrative of a puzzle pieced together through challenges and triumphs. This exploration delves into the career and life of Phil Price, highlighting his significant contributions to the equestrian world and his personal evolution as a trainer and individual.
Phil’s upbringing was steeped in the equestrian tradition, influenced by his parents, Owen (OB) and Adie Price. While his mother had a fondness for Belgian draft horses, his father’s deep love for Percherons, and later Morgans, laid the foundation for the family’s future in the horse industry. This early exposure to a variety of breeds, from draft horses to show ponies, provided Phil with a broad understanding of equine management and training. The family’s move to Columbus, Ohio, marked a significant step as OB Price ventured into professional training, working with Lester Erlanbach. This period saw the family experiencing the dedication required to build a successful operation, including navigating challenging seasons and the relocation of their farm. A pivotal moment came in 1964 with another move to a larger facility in North Columbus, where OB purchased Tasts’ MelodyMan, a Morgan horse that OB transformed into a star in the fine harness division.
As Phil pursued his education and worked at Western Electric, he also began actively participating in horse training. He recalls breaking colts with Steve Conrad, a process that was as much about the horses breaking them as it was about them breaking the horses. This hands-on experience, even with its inherent risks, was invaluable. Phil’s personal journey took a significant turn when he received his draft papers for the U.S. Army, only to be inducted into the Navy Reserves on the same day. Concurrently, his father suffered a serious injury. Phil received a hardship discharge to return home, a process facilitated by Colonel Raymond Strasberger and E.E. Davis. Even before Phil’s return, the farm began receiving Morgans from influential figures like Mr. Sullivan, Dr. Thomas Eaton, and Dr. Irons, marking the burgeoning reputation of the Price name in the Morgan breed.
The establishment of Carrousel Stables in Bellevue, Ohio, was a major undertaking for the Price family. Although Phil was still serving in the Navy, he joined the family at the new 29-stall facility upon his discharge. Despite initial financial challenges and the barn being filled with corporate-owned horses, the Prices eventually leased and then purchased the facility, renaming it Carrousel Stables. They expanded the stables to 75 stalls as demand grew, with both OB and Phil Price becoming increasingly recognized names. The support of families like the Browns, who brought horses such as Applevale Athena and Bayberry Belinda, and Penny Price’s success in equitation and at Oklahoma, further solidified their standing. The stables also housed notable horses like Holly’s Teacher’s Pet and Prince Omar, the latter being Phil’s first world champion gelding.
Phil’s dedication to the equestrian world is evident in his profound satisfaction derived from developing young horses and guiding them to success. He has witnessed firsthand the evolution of the industry, noting the significant rise and impact of pleasure horses, which he believes have greatly contributed to the sport. He also expresses concern over the decline in participation in some other divisions, recalling a time when classes like the Park Saddle Mare had much larger entries. Phil’s expertise is highlighted by his successful campaigns with horses like Pinehaven Renaissance, a two-time World Park Saddle Champion, and Big Bend H-Bomb, which achieved an impressive 20 blue ribbons in 20 classes as a four-year-old. The consistent success of Carrousel Stables was a testament to the collective talent, drive, and determination of the entire Price family and their dedicated staff.
Phil has always been a strong advocate for incentive programs, recognizing their crucial role in encouraging participation and rewarding excellence. He initiated a program in the mid-1990s where stallion owners contributed to prize money for Park Saddle and Park Harness classes at the Morgan Grand National and World Championship Horse Show. This initiative demonstrates his commitment to advancing the sport for all involved. His belief in collaboration extends to his professional relationships; he values the support of fellow trainers and industry professionals, such as Jim and Jenny Taylor, Steve Demjen, and Lonnie Lavery, whom he can rely on for advice and perspective.
Phil’s journey has not been without its personal challenges. Following the closing of Carrousel Stables, he navigated periods of uncertainty, seeking his path forward. His move to New Albany, Ohio, with his wife Linda Lowary, marked a new chapter, focusing on their combined expertise in Morgans and American Saddlebreds. After their divorce, Phil continued his career at various farms, including Richlon Farm and Jim Stewart’s Lookaway Farm. A significant turning point came with an offer for a private training position at Donna Louzier’s Pixel Acres in New Hampshire. During this time, Phil experienced a period of self-doubt and introspection, but a moment of clarity, inspired by a song, propelled him to recommit to his passion and rebuild his career. This led him to an assistant trainer position at Melinda Moore’s Arrowhead Farm in Kentucky, and subsequently to his current role at L’Ambience Farm in Spring Valley, Ohio.
At L’Ambience Farm, Phil has found renewed success, particularly with the offspring of the mare Artwork. His work with horses like Majestic Impression, Catalyst’s Masterpiece, and Catalyst’s Work Of Art has earned him numerous accolades. He also continues to train American Saddlebreds, a breed he has long admired, recalling his early experiences with horses like Honey Bear and Denmark’s Cherokee. Phil’s perspective on training across breeds emphasizes that a willing horse, regardless of breed, is a valuable asset. He advocates for maintaining the distinct characteristics of each breed, believing that Morgans should retain their unique look, distinct from Saddlebreds.
Phil Price’s life story is a compelling illustration of perseverance in the face of adversity. His deep-seated talent, extensive knowledge, and unwavering determination have allowed him to overcome obstacles and continue making significant contributions to the equestrian world. His journey, marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, serves as an inspiration, reinforcing the idea that with dedication and passion, the pieces of life’s puzzle can indeed fall into place, leading to renewed success and fulfillment.
