Meet Our Founder
Certified and Insured USHJA and USEF Professional
SafeSport and Concussion/CPR certifications
USHJA Trainer Credential Program 2025
Coached champions at Kentucky Horse Park, Wellington International, World Equestrian Center and South East Medal Finals
Intercollegiate awards and leadership with Ave Maria IHSA Equestrian Team
National qualification at 4H Nationals Hippology Judging Conference
GRACE'S BACKGROUND ~
GRACE'S BACKGROUND ~
Fundamentals
Grace’s riding career began at the age of six, when she quickly discovered her passion for both competition and continuous learning. With a strong foundation in natural horsemanship and dressage principles, she brings a unique and holistic perspective to the performance side of the equestrian industry.
During her high school years, Grace served as a working student, where she honed her skills in developing proper basics and fostering trust between horse and rider. Her experience includes working with off-the-track thoroughbreds from local racetracks, giving her invaluable insight into restarting and retraining horses.
Dedicated to growth, Grace consistently sought out opportunities to expand her knowledge, attending clinics and assisting in lessons. Along the way, she successfully competed on both catch rides and her own horses, building a well-rounded foundation of experience that continues to shape her approach to riding and training today.
Education
In 2019, Grace made the move from Illinois to Florida, where she quickly established herself as a leading rider in Zone 5 of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). Joining Cornerstone Farm South, a USHJA Recognized Riding Academy, she further refined her skills, starting as a working student and rapidly advancing into a managerial role overseeing a diverse group of 20 horses. These ranged from international derby finalists and young hunters to horses in a growing lesson program.
Upon completing her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Grace transitioned into the role of Resident Assistant Instructor, where she coached over 20 students each week, provided grooming support at horse shows, and took on the responsibility of coaching the Ave Maria University equestrian team. This comprehensive experience solidified her reputation as a skilled and dedicated instructor, trainer, and manager in the equestrian community.
Philosophy
In 2024, Grace expanded her reach by collaborating with equestrian programs in both Illinois and Florida, where she served as an instructor, barn manager, and rider. In October of that year, she and her husband, Johnny, relocated to the Gainesville/Ocala area and launched their own program in December.
Grace’s mission is to foster a culture of positivity and joy within an industry that often leans toward negativity. Above all, she strives to instill confidence and a sense of fulfillment in her students, regardless of their experience level.
The program is built on a foundation of personalized care and attention to both the horse and rider. Whether a student is working on building confidence through ground skills and horsemanship or competing at the highest performance levels, every rider and every horse is treated with the utmost respect, dignity, and tailored guidance. Grace believes that every team deserves individualized care and a supportive environment where they can grow and thrive.