A Cinderella Story

Written by Liz Haben

Published by The Pinto Horse Magazine

Equestrians often dream of their Cinderella story- whether that may be owning the horse of their dreams or winning a National Championship. However, sometimes it takes a horse named Cinderella finding you to make the Cinderella story happen.

Perhaps the true Cinderella story goes beyond fulfilling a rider’s dreams; sometimes, it’s the horse's story- a tale of being rescued, rehabilitated, and excelling against all odds. This is one such story, where the stars align, and both the horse and rider come together to create their Cinderella story.

A Serendipitous Connection

In the fall of 2022, I received a message that would change everything. A close friend and former colleague from the Chicago suburbs reached out with news of two American Paint Horses rescued by HARPS (Hooved Animal Rescue and Protection Society) in Barrington, Illinois: a gelding named Dallas (APHA Only Slow Dances) and a striking mare named Cinderella (APHA Only Good Til Midnight).

Within 24 hours, I was called into a meeting with Jennie Petterson, the Dean of the School of Equestrian Studies at William Woods University. Unbeknownst to her, I’d already heard about these horses. It turned out that during a recent alumni tour in Des Plaines, Illinois, our University President had met Ronda Ewing (HARPS President) and Robin Shafer (HARPS Investigator and William Woods alum). They shared the horses’ story and suggested they’d be perfect for our equestrian program.

I laughed, pulling out my phone to show Jennie the photos I had received the day before. “It felt like the universe was telling us this was meant to be,” I said.

Taking a Chance on Potential

There wasn’t much known about the horses' training history, but their exceptional bloodlines were enough for me to believe in their potential. “Their breeding alone was worth the gamble,” I remember saying. And Jennie agreed.

“At William Woods, we’re always looking for ways to provide students with meaningful hands-on experiences,” Jennie later explained. “Many of our graduates work in fields addressing the issue of unwanted horses. Taking in these rescues was a natural extension of that mission.”

By late October 2022, Dallas and Cinderella arrived on campus in Fulton, Missouri. With the help of enthusiastic students, we welcomed them into their new forever home.

Ronda Ewing reflected on the moment: “Knowing these horses had a long road ahead for recovery and training, we were thrilled they’d landed somewhere where they could thrive—as ambassadors for both HARPS and William Woods.”

Building Trust, Building Dreams

From the start, we knew they were special. Countless early mornings in the arena with students showed us just how much heart these horses had.

Dallas was a quick learner—steady, kind, and willing. Within a year, he was showing at APHA events with students and earning points.

Cinderella, though, needed more time. She was sweet, willing, and full of potential—but she needed to build confidence. “I didn’t want to rush her. I knew that it was only a matter of time—and the right student—for the Cinderella story to unfold.”

The Right Rider Comes Along

In Spring 2024, that student arrived. Sophomore Abby Burkhalter of Fenton, Missouri, felt an instant connection.

“I remember riding Ella (Cinderella) for the first time,” Abby said. “Ten strides into the trot, I looked at Liz and said, ‘This is my next Congress horse.’”

Together, they began training. Just months later, they made their show debut at an APHA competition hosted by the Missouri Paint Horse Club—and took home their first blue ribbon. Abby set her sights on a bigger goal: the 2024 Color Breed Congress.

The Road to Congress

Preparing for Congress was no small task. At William Woods, students take full ownership of their assigned show horse—handling everything from daily care and grooming to training and competition prep.

As Congress approached, the team worked tirelessly in preparation for this competition. William Woods University has had a long history of showing with the Pinto Horse Association at their prestigious National shows including the Color Breed Congress and the Pinto World Championship. In November of 2024, Abby and Cinderella would be just one of ten of Haben’s students and University horses competing at the Color Congress.

“William Woods offers a rare opportunity. Our students don't just learn in the classroom—they apply their skills in the real world, competing at national events alongside some of the country’s best.”

For Abby, the journey was transformational.

“Cinderella really pushed me,” she said. “She made me analyze my riding, adapt to her needs, and think constantly about how we could improve together.”

A Fairytale Finish

All of Abby’s dedication paid off. In November 2024, Cinderella stepped into the show ring at the Color Breed Congress—and proved she belonged.

Together, they earned:

Champion in Novice Amateur Equitation

Reserve Champion in Amateur Ideal Hunter

Third in Amateur Equitation

Fourth in Novice Hunter Under Saddle

Top Ten in multiple other events including Showmanship, Color, Amateur Hunter, and Performance Halter

“Showing Ella was empowering,” said Abby. “She lights up in the show pen and gives it her all. But as soon as we’re done, she’s back to begging for scratches and cookies.”

Abby reflected on the experience: “I’ve dreamt of training and showing horses since I was three. Without William Woods and Liz, I never would have had this opportunity. Cinderella has truly become my heart horse.”

A Storybook Ending

With a name like Cinderella, it's no surprise this mare has found her very own fairy tale ending, complete with a happily ever after.

Photos courtesy of Jeff Kirkbride Photography