With a grace and poise reminiscent of the most classical equitation champions of years past, Hannah Isop has been a fierce competitor in the jumper ring since she was 9 years old. The adoration of horses is in Hannah’s blood, being the fourth generation of horse lovers, dating back to her great grandmother, Dorothy Schaal. Hannah’s grandparents, Bob and Jeri Freels, ran a successful show barn that specialized in juniors and amateurs that competed in both the hunters and jumpers. Bob Freels was the USET stable manager in the 1950’s, gaining invaluable knowledge from the USET coach at the time, the legendary Bert deNemethy . Growing up with this solid foundation in her environment, and having always been provided with a pony on which to perfect her basic horsemanship, Hannah has a true gift with her horses that far belies her age of only eighteen years. She learned that whether breaking a two year old or showing her beloved Husker Du, her greatest goal is to give each horse her very best. “My granddad, Bob Freels, really taught me that each horse is an individual, and they all require a different approach and understanding,” says Hannah. “At the end of the day, knowing I have achieved this goal is what riding is all about.”

Hannah’s first away show was in Vermont when she was nine years old. She showed her pony, I’m Dancin’ – affectionately known as Pinky, in her first jumper class. Pinky was a Christmas present from proud grandmother, Jeri. “I remember coming out of the ring and thinking this was the coolest thing I had ever done, and that I wanted to do it again and again,” said Hannah. She keeps a photo of herself and Pinky on her bedroom wall as inspiration. Tracy Freels, of Harkaway Farm in Bedford, NY, took Hannah to Vermont and has been her trainer ever since. Tracy has provided Hannah with many mounts over the years, including Keep It Simple, and has made it possible for Hannah to get her mileage in the show ring to showcase her talent.

Hannah’s current focus is on her horses, Husker Du and Keep It Simple. Keep It Simple, the grey horse pictured above, is a project horse that Hannah has successfully advanced from the low schooling jumpers to the low juniors in only one year. Husker Du was a generous gift from talented Grand Prix rider, Georgina Bloomberg. Hannah would like to thank Georgina, Tracy Brindle and Gotham Farm for giving her such an incredible opportunity with Husker.

Hannah and Husker have already proven to be a formidable duo in the junior ring. This year at HITS Saugerties, they achieved several top placings in the low juniors, including two wins and two reserve championships. Hannah’s best advice for any rider? “Just be open and hear what they have to say when you ride.”