Unionville-based farrier Stephen Teichman had been shoeing horses for equestrian events around the globe for 48 years. He has now decided to step back and transition into a role in which he teaches the delicate craft to others. J.F. Pirro nailed down the details in The Hunt magazine.

“When I started, there hadn’t been any progress,” recalled Teichman. “We were still shoeing horses like they did in Washington’s day.”

He admits that farrier is not a profession for everybody.

“You really, really have to want to do this,” he said. “If not, you can’t overcome the discomfort or the working conditions.”

The 63-year-old Teichman never lacked desire or drive in his profession. Three weeks after his right hip was replaced, he was already shoeing horses again.

A St. Davids native, Teichman spent 23 years with the U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team before stepping down last year.

He is also the holder of a patent for a medium-weight sport horseshoe.

His home studio now serves for forging mostly sterling silver jewelry. He also gets to spend more time painting.

Read more about Unionville farrier Stephen Teichman in The Hunt magazine.