With his powerful jump and easygoing personality, Ike (Spartacus x Twister) is a horse who stands out in any ring. Known around the barn as a “sleepyhead,” the black gelding joined Amy Krebs’ family in September of 2023 and quickly became a barn favorite. After several successful years competing in the jumpers, Ike is now preparing to make his official career change this fall to better suit his naturally calm temperament and flexibility. Krebs noted that both she and Ike seem to prefer the relaxed environment of equitation. “I’m more relaxed, so he just canters around with ease,” she said. “I think it’s just a lot easier for both of us.” 

Krebs and Ike will compete at this year’s Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Finals – East. “Finals is the perfect transition for us as we wrap up in the jumpers and move into equitation,” Krebs said. “It really sets us up for success going into the rest of the season.” 

Ike is hardly a stranger to a busy show schedule. This August, he was spotted at the Blue Grass Festival and Kentucky Summer Classic, earning a top three finish in both Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search qualifying classes. Krebs said that Ike loves to show off in front of people at competitions. "He loves the atmosphere,” she said. “He knows when the crowd is watching and definitely likes to show off in front of everyone.”  

One special aspect of their partnership is that Krebs is her own groom. Far from a chore, the work and relationship building is something she genuinely treasures. “It gives me the chance to spend extra time in the barn with him,” she said with a smile. “I try to make him feel as comfortable and at home as much as possible.” 

As Finals approach, their training program looks a little different than others might expect. Krebs likes to keep things low key, focusing on balance and happiness. “We like to keep it simple, stress free, while keeping him as happy as possible,” she explained. For Ike, this means maximum turnout and light work outs. “He’s a naturally fit horse,” said Krebs. “We do lots of little gymnastics and then a light repetition of each flat movement. My focus is to make sure all the ‘buttons’ are there and then we relax.” 

Of course, no routine is complete without plenty of snacks for Ike. He is especially fond of molasses flavored snacks, but his ultimate weakness is cereal, particularly fruit loops. “It’s a little weird,” Krebs laughed. “But he’s obsessed with them. If he sees the box, he perks right up.” His playful side does not stop at snacks. Ike enjoys playing with toys, splashing around during baths, and getting into things he shouldn’t. “He likes to play with anything he can get ahold of, particularly my shadbelly!” 

Whether in the jumper ring or stepping into the equitation ranks, Ike continues to shine with his talent and personality. With his playful spirit and close partnership with Krebs, Ike is well on his way to making his mark, preferably with some fruit loops! 

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