Pat Holmes - Heather Hill Founder

In 1971, Pat Holmes founded Heather Hill Farm in Woodside, California, as a Hackney Pony training and breeding business. In 1975, the focus changed to Section ‘B’ Welsh Ponies with Pat’s introduction to the other “pony lady” of Woodside, Polly Swinerton. At a time when there were no hunter ponies on the West Coast, Polly’s goal at Mary’s Farm, was to breed ponies like those she saw children riding on the East Coast and in England. Polly raised the ponies. Pat produced, showed, and sold them. Laura was privileged to be a part of this historic team successfully showing these beautiful ponies at the Welsh shows in the junior classes.

In the early 80’s, Pat and Polly changed gears when they started breeding the good-natured hardy Welsh Cobs. Their goal was to breed beautiful athletic ponies that the whole family could ride. Polly imported the mares and Pat imported the yearling, Cyffylliog Pendefig, or “Fig.” Fig made his riding debut at the age of three with Pat riding him in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Parade. Fig went on to become the foundation stallion for both the Heather Hill and Mary’s Farm breeding programs. Pat believed that the Welsh Cob and the Welsh in general is the best breed for families and children. Fig was the picture of the perfect Welsh Cob and he was very special to Pat.

In 1996, Laura Stevens was recruited by Pat to become trainer and partner in the Heather Hill breeding and showing business. Sadly, Pat passed away in June of 2006, giving the Heather Hill Farm name to Laura. Fig passed away several months after Pat, we were lucky to have his sons and daughters at the Heather Hill Riding Academy up until the fall of 2011.