Barbara Hay with her own Faolan

EAST AMWELL, N.J.–Barbara Hay, 72, a remarkable figure in the Pony Club and a renowned breeder of dressage horses, died Dec. 27 at her Rainbow Ridge Farm she shared with her devoted daughter Bridget. Surviving are her two children, Bridget Hay of Flemington, NJ, and Ryan Hay of Flemington, NJ; four grandchildren, Ryder Hay, Audrey Hay, Amelia Hay, and Julianna Hay; one sister, Susan Gaukin of Flemington, NJ, and five nieces and nephews. She reveled in her role as Grandma and her passion for her family was always evident.

She was born in Jersey City, NJ, on December 30, 1951, the daughter of the late Edward and Mary Hamilton Staump, she had formerly resided in Scotch Plains, NJ. She was a horse trainer by trade, but that doesn’t adequately define her profession. She was part horse whisperer, part human psychologist, part veterinarian, and part cheerleader. She touched the lives of numerous students through both her involvement in the United States Pony Club, where she was a chief horse management judge and national examiner, and as the owner of Rainbow Ridge Equestrian Center, in Flemington, NJ.

Barbara Hay was born into a family deeply rooted in the equestrian world. At a young age, she developed an unwavering love for horses, which would shape her life’s journey. Growing up, Barbara honed her riding skills and immersed herself in the Pony Club, a community that would become her second family.

Barbara’s talent and dedication were evident early on, and she quickly gained recognition for her exceptional horsemanship. Her passion for dressage led her to become a breeder of high-quality horses, with a particular focus on producing top-notch dressage performers. Barbara’s expertise in horse breeding made her an invaluable asset to the equestrian community.

Barbara touched the lives of countless equestrians and inspired generations to follow in her footsteps. Her love for her life with horses, family, and her extended “Pony Club family was evident in her brilliant smile and sparkling eyes.

Her long-time commitment to the Pony Club played a vital role in nurturing young riders, instilling in them the values of discipline, sportsmanship, and respect for horses. As a breeder, Barbara’s dedication to producing exceptional dressage horses was unparalleled. Her tireless efforts resulted in the birth of numerous talented equine athletes who have gone on to achieve remarkable success in the competitive world of dressage.

Barbara’s influence extended beyond her breeding program, as she generously shared her knowledge and mentored aspiring breeders. Barbara’s passion for dressage extended beyond the arena. She actively participated in equestrian events, sharing her expertise as a judge and offering valuable insights.

Her contributions to the sport were invaluable, and her absence will undoubtedly be deeply felt by the entire equestrian community. “Barbara was a true gem, her dedication to the Pony Club and her passion for dressage was unmatched. She will be sorely missed,” said Sarah Thompson, a close friend of Barbara and fellow equestrian.

“Barbara’s legacy will live on in the horses she bred and the countless lives she touched. She was an inspiration to us all,” said John Davies, a prominent dressage trainer.

Her indomitable spirit, unwavering dedication, and love for horses will continue to inspire generations to come. Barbara’s contributions as a pillar of the Pony Club and a breeder of dressage horses have left an indelible mark on the sport.