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“Horse Wife” Hires Hitman To Kill Rich Husband After Burning $20M On Failed Horse Show Business

By Stephanie Soo & Ramble

In this episode of Rotten Mango, the discussion explores the exclusive Sanctum Club in Beverly Hills, where Hollywood elites participate in pagan-themed events with membership fees reaching $100,000 annually. The club's environment, managed by its founder Damon, combines spiritual and erotic elements while maintaining strict vetting procedures for its high-profile clientele.

The episode also delves into the world of elite equestrian sports, examining the $20 million collapse of the Valitar horse show and its impact on performers and animals. Coverage extends to various equestrian disciplines, from dressage to show jumping, and touches on emerging practices in polo, where some players now clone their best horses to maintain competitive advantages.

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“Horse Wife” Hires Hitman To Kill Rich Husband After Burning $20M On Failed Horse Show Business

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“Horse Wife” Hires Hitman To Kill Rich Husband After Burning $20M On Failed Horse Show Business

1-Page Summary

Sanctum Club and High-End Sex Events

The Sanctum Club in Beverly Hills offers an exclusive, pagan-themed environment where Hollywood elites gather for entertainment and intimate experiences. Entry requires detailed personal information and rigorous vetting, with membership fees ranging from $30,000 to $100,000 annually. The club features trained "devotees" who perform erotic acts, creating what the founder Damon describes as a "spiritual and erotic utopia." Despite some controversies, including allegations of misconduct, the club maintains its reputation for providing a secure environment for high-profile individuals to explore their desires.

Valitar Horse Show: A Cautionary Tale

Tatiana and Mark Remley invested $20 million to create Valitar, an ambitious equestrian show meant to rival established performances. Despite their passion, their lack of industry expertise led to poor planning and disorganization. The show's collapse left 26 horses, 21 performers, and their families stranded without pay. The situation escalated dramatically when a decapitated horse head from an expensive statue was found in the Remleys' bed, suggesting community anger over the failed venture.

Elite Equestrian Sports

Elite equestrian sports encompass several disciplines, each requiring unique skills. Dressage, often called "horse ballet," demands precise coordination between rider and horse, with horses requiring 8-12 years of training. Show jumping tests agility over obstacles, while eventing combines multiple disciplines including dressage, jumping, and cross-country courses.

Stephanie Soo reveals that in polo, the practice of cloning horses has become prevalent, with the top player from Argentina owning six clones of the same pony. This development has sparked debate about the sport's future and ethics, as players increasingly store their best horses' genetic material for future cloning.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A pagan-themed environment draws inspiration from ancient, nature-based spiritual traditions that predate major religions. It often includes symbols, rituals, and aesthetics linked to earth worship, mythology, and mysticism. In the Sanctum Club, this theme likely creates an atmosphere of ritualistic and symbolic significance, enhancing the sense of exclusivity and spiritual connection. This setting may appeal to members seeking experiences beyond conventional social or erotic encounters.
  • Trained "devotees" at the Sanctum Club are individuals who have been specifically educated or skilled in performing erotic acts to enhance the club's atmosphere and experiences for its members. They play a role in creating a unique and immersive environment that aligns with the club's pagan-themed concept, providing entertainment and contributing to the overall ambiance of the establishment. These individuals are selected and trained to ensure that they can deliver the desired level of performance and engagement that fits the club's vision and standards. Their presence adds a layer of sophistication and exclusivity to the club's offerings, catering to the desires and preferences of the high-profile clientele.
  • Describing the club as a "spiritual and erotic utopia" suggests it aims to blend physical intimacy with a deeper, almost sacred experience. This implies members seek not just pleasure but emotional or transcendental connection. The term "utopia" indicates an idealized, perfect environment tailored to their desires. It reflects the club's goal to create a unique space where sexuality and spirituality coexist harmoniously.
  • Controversies around the Sanctum Club often involve accusations of inappropriate behavior and exploitation within its secretive environment. Some former members and employees have reported pressure to participate in activities without full consent. Legal investigations have occasionally been triggered by these claims, though outcomes vary. The club's private nature makes verifying details challenging.
  • The Valitar horse show aimed to become a major new event in the competitive equestrian world, challenging established shows known for high standards and prestige. Such shows are important as they showcase top-level horse training, rider skill, and contribute to the sport's culture and economy. Success in these events can elevate reputations and attract sponsorships, making them influential within the community. Valitar's failure was significant because it disrupted this ecosystem and harmed many involved.
  • The decapitated horse head is a symbolic act of intimidation or anger, often used to send a threatening message. It references a notorious scene from the film "The Godfather," where a severed horse head was used to coerce a character. In this context, it likely expresses the community's outrage over the Remleys' failed equestrian show. Such a gesture implies serious disapproval and personal grievance.
  • Elite equestrian sports include various disciplines that test different skills of horse and rider. Dressage focuses on the horse's obedience, flexibility, and harmony with the rider through a series of precise movements. Show jumping challenges the horse's speed and agility to clear obstacles without faults. Eventing combines dressage, cross-country endurance, and show jumping, requiring versatility and stamina from both horse and rider.
  • Dressage is a highly skilled form of riding where horse and rider perform a series of precise movements from memory. It is called "horse ballet" because the movements resemble a choreographed dance, emphasizing grace, balance, and harmony. The goal is to showcase the horse's training, flexibility, and responsiveness to subtle cues. Judges score performances based on accuracy, fluidity, and the horse's overall demeanor.
  • Show jumping requires horses and riders to clear a series of obstacles within a set time, demanding precision, speed, and control to avoid penalties. Eventing is a three-phase competition combining dressage, cross-country, and show jumping, testing versatility and endurance. Cross-country involves navigating natural terrain and fixed obstacles, challenging stamina and bravery. Both disciplines require extensive training, strong communication between horse and rider, and careful management of the horse's fitness and mental state.
  • Horse cloning in polo involves creating genetically identical copies of top-performing horses to preserve desirable traits. This raises ethical concerns about animal welfare, genetic diversity, and fairness in competition. Critics argue cloning may exploit animals and undermine the sport's integrity by favoring cloned horses over naturally bred ones. Supporters claim it helps maintain elite bloodlines and enhances performance consistency.
  • Cloning in polo allows players to replicate a horse with exceptional traits, ensuring consistent performance. Owning multiple clones of the same pony provides a reliable, genetically identical team member for competitions. This practice raises ethical concerns about animal welfare and fairness in the sport. It also challenges traditional breeding and training methods by prioritizing genetics over natural development.
  • Genetic material for cloning is typically collected through tissue samples or blood from a horse. This material is preserved in specialized biobanks at very low temperatures to maintain cell viability. When cloning is desired, scientists use the stored cells to create an embryo by transferring the nucleus into a donor egg cell. The embryo is then implanted into a surrogate mare to develop into a genetically identical horse.

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“Horse Wife” Hires Hitman To Kill Rich Husband After Burning $20M On Failed Horse Show Business

Sanctum Club and High-End Sex Events

The Sanctum Club is a discreet and elite invitation-only sex club in Beverly Hills, offering its members erotic and intimate experiences.

Sanctum Club: Elite, Invitation-Only Sex Club in Beverly Hills With Strict Membership Requirements

Sanctum Club is characterized as an extravagant, pagan-themed club where Hollywood elites gather for entertainment and after-party pleasures.

The Sanctum Club: An Exclusive, Lavish, Pagan-Themed Entertainment and After-Party Sex Club

Stephanie Soo describes her visit to the Sanctum Club as an opulent experience with elegantly dressed attendees, half pagan sex cult, and half entertainment mogul after-party, frequented by directors post-events like the Oscars.

Entry Requires Detailed Personal Information and a Rigorous Vetting Process

Entrance to Sanctum Club requires a detailed submission of personal information. Prospective members initiate contact through Facebook or a curated submissions page, submitting photos and answering intimate questions. Social media handles are requested for a thorough vetting process. Tickets are obtained from a lingerie shop where they are presented on a silver platter following a stringent application, which includes background checks. The club ensures the safety and privacy of its members with a strict code of conduct.

The Sanctum Club Offers Members Erotic, Boundary-Pushing Sexual and Intimate Experiences

Members are treated to erotic performances by trained "devotees," who engage in taboo acts, contributing to the ambiance of a "spiritual and erotic utopia."

Club's "Devotees" Are Trained Erotic Performers Engaging In Taboo Acts For Members' Entertainment

The Sanctum Club features thematic performances by "devotees," including unusual acts like someone dressed as Marie Antoinette behaving provocatively with a champagne bottle, or acting as human furniture. Performers are selected based on stringent criteria, not solely physical attractiveness – for example, a woman who wanted to become a politician involved in a sex scandal to highlight societal double standards.

The Club's Events Offer a "Spiritual and Erotic Utopia" for Discreet Exploration of Intimate Desires

Damon, the club's founder, envisions Sanctum Club as a space for a profound exploration of sexuality, regularly organizing opulent masquerades and erotic theater that transcend typical sexual gatherings. However, despite th ...

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Sanctum Club and High-End Sex Events

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A "pagan-themed" club draws inspiration from ancient, nature-based spiritual traditions often associated with rituals and symbolism outside mainstream religions. In this context, it likely means the club uses mystical or ritualistic aesthetics to create an exotic, otherworldly atmosphere. This theme can evoke a sense of freedom, taboo, and connection to primal human experiences. It enhances the club's identity as a unique, immersive environment for erotic exploration.
  • The "devotees" at the Sanctum Club are trained erotic performers who engage in taboo acts to create a unique and immersive experience for the club's members. They are selected based on specific criteria beyond physical appearance, such as their ability to embody different roles and scenarios that cater to diverse sexual fantasies. These performers contribute to the club's ambiance of a "spiritual and erotic utopia" by showcasing unconventional and provocative acts during themed events. The presence of devotees adds an element of theatricality and artistry to the club's offerings, enhancing the overall atmosphere of exploration and indulgence.
  • A "spiritual and erotic utopia" refers to a space where sexuality is experienced as both a physical and deeply meaningful, almost sacred, act. It blends erotic pleasure with a sense of personal or collective transcendence and emotional connection. This concept often involves rituals, symbolism, and an atmosphere that elevates sexual experiences beyond mere physicality. The goal is to create a safe, accepting environment for exploring desires while fostering self-awareness and intimacy.
  • The "taboo acts" performed at the Sanctum Club include provocative behaviors like someone dressed as Marie Antoinette engaging with a champagne bottle and individuals acting as human furniture. These acts are considered taboo due to their provocative and unconventional nature, challenging societal norms and expectations around sexuality and behavior. Performers are selected based on criteria beyond physical attractiveness, aiming to create unique and thought-provoking experiences for the club's members. The inclusion of such acts adds an element of intrigue and boundary-pushing to the club's events, contributing to its reputation for offering unconventional and daring entertainment.
  • The comparison to Cirque du Soleil highlights the club's elaborate, theatrical, and visually stunning performances. Victoria's Secret fashion show evokes glamour, sensuality, and high-end fashion presentation. Together, they suggest the club's events combine artistic spectacle with erotic allure. This emphasizes the unique, immersive, and luxurious nature of the experiences offered.
  • "Dominus level" membership likely refers to the highest tier of membership at the Sanctum Club, offering the most exclusive access and privileges. The term "dominus" is Latin for "lord" or "master," implying a position of authority or elite status within the club. This level is capped at only 20 members worldwide, emphasizing its rarity and exclusivity. Such tiers often come with premium benefits, enhanced privacy, and priority access to events.
  • The rigorous vetting process ensures that only trustworthy and discreet individuals gain access, protecting members' privacy and safety. Background checks verify criminal history and personal conduct to prevent potential risks or harmful behavior. Social media scrutiny helps assess applicants' public personas, social circles, and lifestyle compatibility with the club's culture. This thorough screening maintains the club's exclusivity and sa ...

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“Horse Wife” Hires Hitman To Kill Rich Husband After Burning $20M On Failed Horse Show Business

Valitar Horse Show: Remley Couple's Failed Bid Against Established Equestrian Shows

Tatiana and Mark Remley invested a fortune to rival long-established equestrian spectacles but faced a host of difficulties and controversies that led to Valitar’s downfall.

Tatiana and Mark Remley Invested $20 Million In the Valitar Horse Show To Rival Cavalia

Tatiana and Mark Remley, Inexperienced in Equestrian Logistics, Struggled to Manage a Horse Show

The Remleys, despite their passion for creating a unique equestrian show, found themselves unprepared to manage the complexities of such an ambitious event. Tatiana rode horses since her childhood but was no equestrian expert, while Mark, a tech entrepreneur, had little knowledge of the horse industry. They aimed to create a show under a large red tent in Del Mar, California, spanning 45,000 square feet, bringing in various industry professionals and performers.

Valitar Launch Suffers From Poor Planning, Disorganization, and Lack of Equestrian Industry Understanding, Leading To Cancellation and Abandonment of Horses and Performers

The couple's dream unravelled quickly as the Valitar show was plagued with issues stemming from mismanagement and inexperience. They invested over $20 million in their venture, only to see it fail due to poor planning and disorganization. The fiasco escalated with performers quitting over large creative differences with Tatiana and reports of abandoned horses left with nothing to eat.

Valitar Show Fails: Scandals, Remleys' Horses Missing, Decapitated Horse Head Found In Bed

Valitar Fiasco Shows Risks Of Entering Niche Industries Without Expertise, and Potential Consequences

The show spiralled into scandal, including reports of missing horses and the most shocking incident—a decapitated horse head from an expensive statue placed on the Remleys' marital bed. This event suggested a targeted message or even a t ...

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Valitar Horse Show: Remley Couple's Failed Bid Against Established Equestrian Shows

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Actionables

  • You can start a niche venture journal to document your learning curve and mitigate risks associated with entering a new industry. Begin by researching the industry you're interested in and write down key insights, potential pitfalls, and expert contacts. This will serve as a roadmap and a reality check to ensure you're gaining the necessary knowledge before making significant investments.
  • Create a mentorship circle by reaching out to experienced professionals in the industry you're aiming to enter. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential mentors, and propose short, regular meetings to discuss industry-specific challenges and best practices. This will help you build a support network and gain valuable insights from those who have a proven track record.
  • Develop a contingency plan for your projects by identi ...

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“Horse Wife” Hires Hitman To Kill Rich Husband After Burning $20M On Failed Horse Show Business

Elite Equestrian Sports: Dressage, Show Jumping, Eventing, Polo

Elite equestrian sports comprise a range of disciplines that showcase the abilities of both horses and riders. These sports include dressage, show jumping, eventing, and polo, each demanding different skills and preparation.

Elite Equestrian Sports: Dressage, Show Jumping, Eventing, and Equine Science

Dressage: "Horse Ballet" of Rider and Horse Coordination

Dressage is an Olympic sport often referred to as "horse ballet," due to its emphasis on the precise and graceful coordination between the rider and the horse. Horses in dressage undergo rigorous training and must train for a minimum of eight to twelve years to perform the complex movements required. The success of a dressage performance lies in the grace and control of the horse as it executes precise, choreographed movements.

Jumping Tests Agility; Eventing Blends Dressage, Jumping, and Cross-Country

Show jumping tests the agility of both horse and rider as they navigate a course of obstacles that they must clear without knocking them down. Speed and the ability to clear the rounds are key to success in this challenging sport.

Eventing is a unique discipline that combines dressage, show jumping, and cross-country, requiring horses and riders to showcase their versatility. Cross-country challenges include navigating an outdoor course with various obstacles. In eventing, penalties can occur for refusals or falls, as well as for completing the course too slowly or too swiftly.

It's worth noting that horses are carefully bred for these sports, with their genetic makeup playing a significant role in their aptitude for each discipline. Some even undergo lab testing for the "speed gene," which can determine their suitability for certain types of equestrian sports.

Cloned Ponies Add Complexity, Controversy to Polo

Cloned Polo Ponies Spark Debate on Sport's Future and Ethics

Stepha ...

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Elite Equestrian Sports: Dressage, Show Jumping, Eventing, Polo

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Dressage is a highly skilled form of riding where horse and rider perform a series of predetermined movements from memory. It emphasizes harmony, precision, and fluidity, making the horse appear to dance. The term "horse ballet" reflects the artistic and graceful nature of these movements, similar to a ballet performance. Judges score based on the horse's obedience, flexibility, and the rider's subtle control.
  • Dressage movements include precise gaits like piaffe (trotting in place) and passage (slow, elevated trot). Horses perform lateral movements such as shoulder-in and half-pass, requiring advanced balance and flexibility. Transitions between gaits must be smooth and nearly invisible to judges. These movements demonstrate the horse's training, responsiveness, and harmony with the rider.
  • Show jumping involves horse and rider navigating a course with various obstacles like verticals, oxers, and combinations. Vertical jumps are single bars, while oxers have two bars spread apart to test the horse's width clearance. Combinations are multiple jumps placed closely together, requiring quick, precise turns. Time limits and fault penalties for knocking down rails or refusals add to the challenge.
  • Eventing is a three-phase equestrian competition combining dressage, show jumping, and cross-country. The cross-country phase tests endurance and bravery, featuring natural obstacles like water, ditches, and logs over varied terrain. Riders must complete the course within an optimal time to avoid penalties. This phase emphasizes speed, stamina, and the horse's ability to handle diverse challenges safely.
  • In eventing, a refusal occurs when a horse stops or runs out at an obstacle instead of jumping it. A fall happens if either the rider or horse falls to the ground during the course. Both refusals and falls result in penalty points added to the competitor's score. Accumulating too many penalties can lead to elimination from the competition.
  • Genetics influence traits like speed, stamina, temperament, and jumping ability in horses, which are crucial for different equestrian disciplines. Breeders select horses with desirable genetic traits to improve performance and suitability for specific sports. Genetic testing, including identifying the "speed gene," helps predict a horse's potential in racing or jumping. This scientific approach aims to produce horses with optimal physical and mental attributes for elite competition.
  • The "speed gene" refers to a specific genetic variant that influences a horse's muscle composition and ability to perform at high speeds. Lab testing involves analyzing a horse's DNA, usually from a hair or blood sample, to identify the presence of this gene. This genetic information helps breeders and trainers predict a horse's potential for sprinting or endurance. It guides decisions on training and selecting horses for particular equestrian sports.
  • Cloning horses involves creating a genetically identical copy of an existing horse using somatic cell nuclear transfer, w ...

Counterarguments

  • While dressage is often compared to "horse ballet," some critics argue that this analogy oversimplifies the sport and fails to acknowledge the physical demands and athletic nature of both horse and rider.
  • The training duration for horses in dressage can vary widely; some horses may reach high levels of competition in less time than the eight to twelve years suggested, depending on individual talent and training methods.
  • In show jumping, while speed and the ability to clear rounds are important, strategy, timing, and the horse-rider relationship are also crucial factors that can influence success.
  • Eventing is sometimes criticized for its risk level, particularly in the cross-country phase, with concerns about the safety of both horse and rider leading to calls for changes in course design and competition rules.
  • The role of genetics in horse breeding for equestrian sports is complex, and while certain traits are heritable, environmental factors and training also play significant roles in a horse's performance.
  • The ethical debate surrounding cloned polo ponies is multifaceted, with some arguing that cloning can help preserve valuable genetics and improve the overall quality of polo p ...

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