Horses have always been a part of my life!  I guess you could say that I’ve been riding since I could walk, and that I couldn’t imagine a life without horses.  I’ve enjoyed many aspects of riding – both in and out of competition.  I have been a member of B.C. Little Britches Rodeo, running poles and barrels; an “A” level graduate of the Canadian Pony Club; started and trained several horses; and helped with cattle turn out and range riding. My love and passion, though, is EVENTING. Coming from the rural community of Merritt, British Columbia, Canada, I was extremely fortunate to have two fabulous coaches. With the guidance of my first coach, Anita Orton, who gave me the basics that I needed to become a good rider, and with my second coach, Lynne Larsen, who helped to develop my confidence as a rider and as a person, I have been able to accomplish many of my goals.  Both women have given me their unconditional support and encouragement throughout the years, and because of their commitment and belief in me, I feel I will eventually be able to attain my ultimate goal of riding for Canada.

Over the past years, I have had several clinical opportunities to learn from some of the best Canadian riders:  Rebecca Howard, Michael Winters, Bruce Mandeville, Stuart Black, Kyle Carter, Nick Holmes-Smith, Karen Brain, Chelan Kozak, and Joni Lynn Peters.  I have also had lessons and clinics from some of the world’s best riders/coaches:  Jimmy Wofford, Captain Mark Phillips, Leslie Law, David O’Connor, Silva Martin, and Diane Ritz.

Coming to the East Coast – I’m almost 3,000 miles from home!!

I had heard so much about Rebecca Howard from other working students and members of Horse Trials B.C., I didn’t hesitate sending Rebecca my resume. So after grooming for my long-time good friend Stephanie Rhodes-Bosch, at the 2008 NAJYRC’s – at 20 years old, I made the long trek by myself from Colorado to The Fork Stables in Norwood, North Carolina.  My time with Rebecca and The Fork Stables was so amazing, that I knew I had made the right decision to move away from the province and family that I loved, to pursue my dream!

After my year as a working student, I was offered a position at Dream Catcher Equestrian, in Mathews, North Carolina.  I remained there until the Spring 2010.  The Doolittle family was incredibly good to me and I appreciate all that they had provided for me, however, when The Fork Stables and Rebecca asked me back to be their Assistant Equestrian Director, I jumped at the opportunity.