One of eventing’s most recognizable partnerships will turn over a new leaf tomorrow, Aug. 1, as Kim Severson relocates to a new facility after spending 11 years working as head trainer for Linda Wachtmeister at Plain Dealing Farm in Scottsville, Va.

As Severson’s career burgeoned in the past several years, she began seeking additional owners, while Wachtmeister and her children were becoming more and more involved in the sport themselves. A discussion began earlier this summer that eventually led to a mutual agreement on the split.

“Linda and I had been talking, and we agreed that I should take over the business aspect of it and make it my own,” Severson said. “It was something I knew we’d come to at some point. We thought that it would be better if I found a barn of my own so that she and I didn’t have any sort of falling out or dwindling [of our friendship].”

“About three years ago we started trying to get new owners for Kim and I think that’s really taken off for her this year,” said Wachtmeister. “I hope to always have at least one [horse] with her! We’ve been doing this for 11 years, and I don’t think anyone would last that long if they didn’t have great communication. We really like each other and respect each other.”

Severson will maintain the rides on the farm’s top horses, including Winsome Adante and Tsunami, and continue training Wachtmeister’s youngest daughter, Benita Strini. Severson will board and train at Bluebird Hill Farm outside of Scottsville. The facility, currently in the final stages of completion, is just 20 minutes from Plain Dealing, where Severson’s student Molly Bull will take over as trainer.