Finding the Perfect Icelandic Horse: Chris and Heimir’s Journey
This blog post is based on an article I originally wrote and photographed for the March 2024 issue of the Quarterly Magazine for the United States Icelandic Horse Congress. While some content has been adapted for this blog, all quotes remain true to the original story.
“I’d been thinking about him for a while. All it took was going on a quest to find him.”
When it came to purchasing a new horse, Chris’s initial criteria seemed reasonable: a reliable gelding, between 5 and 8 years, at least 145 cm tall, a natural Tölter, well-balanced gaits, a commendable work ethic, and a friendly nature toward other horses.
However, as discussions continued with trainer Alicia Flanigan, the “would-likes” became “must-haves.” Now the ideal horse had to be chestnut, exhibit exceptional conformation, have a flaxen mane and tail, showcase advanced training relative to age, be proficient in all five gaits, and demonstrate a wide speed range in tölt. Despite the daunting search, Chris trusted Alicia to find the perfect match.
Alicia Flanigan’s Farm: A Training Paradise
Alicia Flanigan’s secluded farm in Limington, Maine — Fire & Ice Icelandic Horses — is home to five of her personal Icelandic horses. It also serves as a training haven for riders and their Icelandic horses from across the region.
From the spotless barn to well-maintained arenas and scenic trails, it’s the perfect environment for Alicia to guide her clients in finding their dream horses.
Chris Willrodt, an experienced rider with 18 years of Icelandic horses under her belt, had moved from California to Maine in 2020. She connected with Alicia for lessons and training for her two Icelandics, Solfari and Andvari, eventually enlisting Alicia’s help to find her lifelong dream horse.
The Search Begins: Defining the Criteria
Alicia reflects on their journey:
“Chris and I have been working closely together for about three years. I’ve not only been providing lessons and training but also caring for her two Icelandic geldings, offering tune-ups along the way. Over time, I’ve gotten to know Chris well, both as a person and as a rider.”
The process began with creating a detailed list of criteria. Chris’s requirements ranged from age and size to appearance and temperament. Alicia added professional considerations like training level and gaits.
Once they had a clear picture, the search extended to Iceland. Alicia contacted reputable farms, tried numerous horses, and narrowed the options to only those that met all criteria.
erything was going smoothly and on the right track.
Finding Heimir: The Perfect Match
Alicia continues:
“Among the potential horses, I had a personal pick, but I remained neutral until Chris could try them herself. One horse, Heimir, caught my attention months earlier. When I returned to Iceland, he was still available. Trying him, I immediately knew he was perfect.”
Chris’s trial in Iceland confirmed it. They canceled remaining appointments and focused on lessons with Heimir. This gave Chris a chance to bond with him and learn his cues.
The import process followed. Alicia guided Chris every step of the way — from arranging transport to helping Heimir acclimate to his new home in Maine.
Making Matches, Not Sales
Alicia explains:
“Finding the right horse takes dedication from both trainer and rider. It’s not just about selling horses — it’s about creating meaningful matches. Clear communication, detailed criteria, and unbiased selection are key to success. Witnessing the joy clients experience with their new horse is truly magical.”
Alicia shares her perspective on the match-making process.
Steps to Finding the Perfect Match:
Knowing Your Client: The foundation of this journey lies in understanding the client, knowing what they want to use the horse for, and considering their horse knowledge and background based on their skill level.
Understanding Client’s Needs: It’s crucial to know the client’s needs in their equine partner. This involves being honest with oneself and the client about capabilities and expectations.
Creating Criteria Lists: Working with clients to create a detailed list of criteria, addressing both personal preferences and my professional considerations. The criteria list becomes the guiding principles in my search for a horse.
Creating “Wish” Lists: Clients are encouraged to create lists of “would like” features, such as size, gaits, age, temperament, and colors.
Establishing Clear Communication: Both parties need to have a clear understanding of elements such as movement, temperament, willingness level, and other specific qualities. Clear communication between the rider, trainer, and buyer is essential.
Scouting Out Potential Fits: After gaining a good feel for the client’s needs, I scour reputable farms in search of potential matches. I consider various factors such as age, size, appearance, temperament, and training level.
Implementing an Unbiased Selection Process: Every horse on the list goes through an unbiased selection process to ensure it fits the criteria before my client ever sits on them. This ensures objectivity in the decision-making process.
Trying Horses Personally: To ensure the horse meets our exacting standards, I personally try out potential matches. From this, I create a list of horses that fit the criteria.
Assisting with Vet Checks and Import Process: Once I find a potential match, my mother, Nikkisue Flanigan, and I collaborate to arrange the horse’s vet check and manage the export/import process. This includes aiding in the often stressful task of importing horses, particularly for first-time buyers. Our combined expertise ensures a smooth process, working seamlessly together to make it all happen.
Advising on the Acclimation Process: I actively participate in the acclimation process as the horse transitions into the US. This includes helping the horse and rider establish a strong bond, ensuring they begin on the right foot in their new environment.
Making Matches, Not Sales: The goal is not just to sell a horse but to make meaningful matches. This method may not be suitable for every client, but for those seeking their perfect match, it ensures a thorough and thoughtful process.
Chris’s Experience with Heimir
Chris shares:
“Ever since Heimir arrived, I’ve had a lasting inner peace. I had a clear picture in my mind of many qualities, including his chestnut color and silver in his mane and tail. In his first few days, Heimir was restless, perhaps missing his homeland. Five weeks later, we’ve settled into a routine. He grazes in the early morning, and our rides are seamless. He’s proud and rhythmic, yet calm when needed. My search is over.”
Alicia’s Dedication to Icelandic Horses
Alicia divides her time between Maine and Mosfellsbær, Iceland, providing training, clinics, and lessons. She recently qualified for the Icelandic Championships as the sole American representative, achieving commendable scores of 6.4–6.8.
Despite her success, Alicia remains humble, focusing on her passion for the breed and sharing her expertise with riders in the U.S. and abroad.
*This article was recently published in the March 2024 issue of the Quarterly Magazine for the United States Icelandic Horse Congress https://icelandics.org/
I love to watch Chris ride her horses. I’m in love with the Tolt which Chris has talked to me about
I tear up watching her ride. I can seen the love she shares with this breed. They are truly lucky to have found Chris and likewise