Jim and Renee's success in developing and showing Shetland Ponies is
well known and their work outside of the stud is also greatly appreciated. Exhibiting, judging and regularly attending a great many equestrian shows the length and breadth of the UK (and occasionally beyond) occupies a great deal of the couple's time. Jim (in judge's garb in the photo on the left) is a respected judge of Shetland Ponies and possesses a wealth of knowledge about the breed. Renee (who is shown on the right, with one of the Stow Shetland Pony Stud champions, Velveteen) is no less committed to the breed. Her knowledge is extensive and her grooming and her preparation of ponies, to be shown, is generally regarded as being of the highest quality. The 'Stow' line of Shetland ponies is largely influenced by the 'Wells' line, the original Wells stud being founded in 1901 by Mr John Sleigh. A Netherly stallion (much admired by Jim) was used on the Wells 'V' line female to provide the basis for the Stow Stud.
The Stow Shetland Pony Stud's home is in the Highlands of Scotland, an often undervalued area of the United Kingdom. It has a rich history and a strong heritage. Left in its keep are a variety of monuments, landmarks and artefacts, the majority of which are well worth seeing. If you should decide to venture to the Highlands of Scotland, Jim and Renee would only be too happy for you to visit them at the Stow Shetland Pony Stud. It would be their pleasure to talk to you about the breed and give you advice, when requested.
We continue to endeavour to consistently produce prize winning youngsters which have taken the place of their parents and closely related elders. This we have achieved and which enables us (A) to retire championship winning young ponies from the show ring, some never having been beaten in their class and in two cases, “Black Velvet” and "Viola”, never to have been beaten for a championship, including the prestigious Royal Highland Show and (B) to maintain producing this very high percentage of prize winning home bred young stock along with “Stow” ponies now with new owners not only winning championships but also breeding winners - all of which gives Renee and Jim a great deal of pleasure and satisfaction.
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