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Race To Ribbons Sponsorship
Scroll down to read the 2025 season blogs!
New Start Standardbreds is proud to announce Allie Koncovy of Havelock, Ontario, as our 2025 Race to Ribbons Sponsored Rider. Allie has been actively competing in Western Gymkhana with her exceptional Standardbred mare, IMA HOLY TERROR (shown under the name Rockaby My Saro Jane). Their impressive performances throughout the 2024 Timbertrail Western Riders Gymkhana series earned them the Top Standardbred sponsorship, and in 2025, they are set to further showcase the versatility and athleticism of the Standardbred breed.
Promoting Standardbred Versatility in Open Breed Competition
Allie is dedicated to breaking the stereotype that Standardbreds are limited to their racing backgrounds. She is passionate about demonstrating their adaptability in Western disciplines, particularly in the high-speed and technical world of Gymkhana. When asked about her motivation for competing with a Standardbred in open breed shows, she shared:
“Knowing that Standardbreds are not a common type of horse to participate in Western Gaming, I think it is important for people to recognize that Standardbreds do not have a limit on what they are capable of.”
Through competition and education, Allie aims to highlight that Standardbreds can succeed beyond the racetrack. Her goal is to inspire equestrians to consider Standardbreds as viable sport horse prospects in a variety of disciplines.
A Journey of Dedication and Determination
Allie and Saro have developed a strong partnership, overcoming challenges and proving that patience and dedication lead to success. Allie’s commitment to training her mare from the ground up has built a foundation of trust and performance. She reflects on their journey:
“Saro is a horse who puts her heart into everything we do together. We have come a long way despite some major obstacles, and I am proud to have worked with her from the ground up. I am looking forward to continuing our training and educating others on the Standardbred breed.”
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Competition Season
In 2025, Allie and Saro plan to compete in over 12 events, including:
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The Timbertrail Gymkhana Series
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Local fairs and open breed competitions
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An ambitious goal – competing at Ram Rodeo events
As the Race to Ribbons Sponsored Rider, Allie will proudly represent New Start Standardbreds, wearing branded apparel, sharing her experiences through videos, blogs, and social media updates, and promoting the Standardbred breed throughout the competition season.
Join Us in Supporting Allie & Saro
We are excited to follow Allie and Saro’s journey throughout 2025 as they compete, educate, and advocate for Standardbreds in Western performance sports. Their story is a testament to the adaptability and determination of these incredible horses, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish this season. Stay connected with us for competition updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive insights as we celebrate the journey of our 2025 sponsored rider!
Saddling Up for Success: Introducing Allie
April 30, 2025
My name is Allie Koncovy, and I began working with horses in 2020 through my involvement with the 4H Club. Due to the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, I had the unique opportunity to receive one-on-one guidance from a 4H leader in Peterborough County. Following that experience, I began taking riding lessons and gained valuable experience with a variety of horses. I initially focused on English riding, with occasional exposure to Western disciplines.
In 2021, I was thrilled to receive my first horse, Patricia. Together, we began training in jumping and participated in several shows. Sadly, our time together was cut short, and I had to make the difficult decision to say goodbye to her in June 2022.
Following that loss, I returned to riding different horses and gradually shifted my focus to Western riding. In October 2022, I purchased my current horse, Saro. With the guidance of my coaches, I trained her as a barrel horse, and we began competing at local fairs and club events. Over time, those small shows led to rodeos, and I proudly brought Saro to her first High School Rodeo in the fall of 2024, where she exceeded all my expectations.
I’m excited to continue growing as a rider and look forward to what the 2025 season holds for us.
My great-grandfather was a Standardbred racehorse trainer, and I grew up learning about the breed through my family’s experiences. I’ve always admired Standardbreds for their versatility and the many things they can do beyond racing. When Saro joined our family, we weren’t actively searching for a horse, but she came into my life at a time when I needed her most. Together, Saro and I have learned and grown significantly, and our bond has been a journey of mutual development.
My goals for the 2025 season are to participate in more shows and rodeos, showcasing both Saro’s talents and the incredible potential of the Standardbred breed. I am passionate about educating others on the versatility of Standardbreds and raising awareness about their capabilities beyond racing. Additionally, I aim to share the valuable work that organizations like New Start are doing to give these horses a second chance and a new purpose.
My favourite thing about Saro is her honesty and how much she enjoys her sport. She never fails to amaze me with everything she does. Saro is the type of horse that no matter what kind of day it is, she will take care of you. I always know she will keep me safe inside and outside of the arena.
Before each show, I have a personal ritual of taking a moment to pray. I offer a prayer for safety, asking for protection for both Saro and myself during our run, as well as for the safety of all the competitors and their horses in the arena. This practice helps me focus and I always do it no matter what the circumstances.
I am most excited to compete in barrel racing, dash, and keyhole events, as these are Saro’s strongest disciplines. She truly thrives in these classes and approaches the arena with confidence, fully understanding her role and purpose. It’s always a rewarding experience to see her perform at her best in these events.
Being a sponsored rider for New Start means a lot to me. Its not just about support during the highs and the lows of the season- its about having people who truly believe in me, people I can count on and trust. It also gives me the incredible opportunity to showcase the talent and potential of Standardbreds. Being a sponsored rider is a form of recognition for what Saro and I have already accomplished and it motivates me to keep pushing forward, reaching new goals, and hopefully inspire others along the way.
Saros theme song would be Diva by Beyonce, every time I hear this song, I think about Saro and how much she enjoys her job!
I am looking forward to you all joining me in this journey with Saro and New Start Standardbreds!
