Exclusive Interview: How Robin Martinez of Blackjack Farm Picks her Next Top Horse?

Blackjack Farm is a beautiful private facility located in Vista (north San Diego) California managed by onsite owners Robin & Dionicio Martinez. We have a small training business focused on solid fundamentals of riding with an emphasis on Jumpers and Equitation. We offer a full training program for riders looking for a one on one experience. 

Emilio, shown by Michael Andrade in the Talent Search West Finals 2018, currently for sale, Imported Dutch gelding, Captured Moment Photography. To learn more about Emilio click here. 

PE - What characteristics must the horse have in order for you to consider purchasing? 

RM - They must have good character.  Character is the one thing that you can’t really influence so make sure it’s there from the start.

PE - Do you have a specific type of horse that you prefer or that you've found to have the most success with? 

RM - Perhaps they don't move as well but have an incredible jump or vice versa. I always look for a consistent, naturally balanced canter rhythm.  Whether it’s a Jumper or an Eq horse, the better the canter the easier it will be for the rider to find the jump. 

Elegante, shown by Greg Solente in the Performance Hunters, Imported 7 yr old Holstiener, currently for sale, Captured Moment photography. 
 

PE - Do you try to stay within a specific age range when trying horses? 

RM - It totally depends on the job the horse is going to do.  I love an older, experienced horse for a newer rider or one looking to move up divisions.  I like a young one for myself to bring along and prepare for a career.  

PE - Do you think the horse's physical capability or mental attitude are more important?

RM - It’s import that they have the physical ability and the mind for the job, they go hand in hand.  But as I stated before, good character is the most important thing.  

PE - What are some of the questions that you ask the horses previous owners or whoever you are purchasing the horse from?

RM - Previous health history. Has the horse had any significant accidents, like a bad crash at a jump or and tumble or an issue in the crosstie.  Trailering. What is their normal prep/practice at a show?

Girena P, ridden by Lane Clark in the 1.30m, photo Captured Moment, 6 year old imported from Holland, sold 2018

PE - Do you prefer to bring along a green horse yourself or a horse that already has experience and training? 

RM - If the focus is going to be the horse, then green can be great.  If the focus is on the rider learning, then an experienced horse is a much better option. 

PE - What do you like about ProEquest?

RM - ProEquest is easy to use as a buyer or a seller.  The site brings a great group of people together who otherwise might not have connected.  It’s the only online site I use for our business.  

A special thank you to Robin Martinez of Blackjack Farm for taking the time to answer our questions and share some of her insights into the equestrian world. To see the current horses that Robin has listed for sale be sure to visit her ProEquest profile!