About
I work with students who have their own horses and are interested in advancing their riding skills at home or in the show ring. I specialize in equitation, hunters, and jumpers, but am degreed to teach dressage and western riding as well. My qualifications include a Bachelor's in Equestrian Science from William Woods University, over 20 years teaching and training horses, and competing around the U.S. at A-rated shows. Client bio: I have qualified Quarter Horses for World, campaigned Morgan horses to Grand National titles in Dressage, and Dressage Driving, six students have gone on to compete on intercollegiate teams in polo and hunter-jumper disciplines (one as a captain), and one junior campaigned at Arab Grand Nationals. Here in Oklahoma my students have won state, local, and national awards. Five of my students have gone on to have professional careers in the equine industry.
I was first asked to teach at 19. That experience was such a delight. I was instantly hooked. I love the "light-bulb" moment, when my students really grasp and execute a concept. The whole skill-set comes together and horse and rider are able to do something seamlessly, as one. As their knowledge grows, and they become wonderful horsemen and women, we improve the industry standard for horses here in Oklahoma, which has been a lifelong goal.
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Riding styles interested in
Have a horse
Student's interests and goals
Experience level
How often
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Merry L.
Crystal M.
Ann E.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to meet with and evaluate new students and their horses, and go over goals. From there, we formulate a lesson plan, and what fitness and dietary needs might best aid the horse in achieving those goals to be the strongest partner for the rider.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been riding since the age of three, have a Bachelor in Equestrian Science from William Woods University, and have trained horses and competed professionally since the age of 19. I owned and operated a 1.5 million dollar hunter jumper facility for a decade.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$50.00 for an hour lesson
$30.00 for a half hour private
How did you get started teaching?
The instructor I rode with in college asked if I would mind picking up a few lessons. I loved it, and persued my Bachelor of Science in Equestrian Studies and it became a lifetime passion. I taught directly out of college in Texas, then opened my own facility here in Oklahoma in 1996.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages. From adults returning to the sport after a long haitus raising a family to very young beginners just starting, and advanced riders. I am degreed to teach Hunter-Jumper, Western, and Dressage, as I studied all three seats in college.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Last summer I had the opportunity to work with students who had not ridden green horses before. It was a challenge they rose to admirably. We had a great time, and they were able both to show them, and to become more confident in their own skills.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Know what you want to do. Do you want to show or just ride for fun? Has your trainer showed, and trained horses? What experience training horses do they have, and what results have they produced? What are their methods? These are things you need to know. Ask before you train with them. Do your homework.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your riding goals?
Do you want to show?
Do you plan to buy a horse someday?
Do you want to ride English or Western?