My Story

   Vanessa has a B.A. in Human Biology from Pitzer College, a member of the Claremont Colleges. She is currently working towards graduate school to become a Physician Assistant. When Vanessa is not studying for school she is out at the barn riding and coaching. Vanessa began her riding career when she was 8 years old in Arvada, CO at Equinox. Her Grandfather owned and operated the Colorado Saddlery in Denver and both Vanessa and her mom, Susan, wanted to support the family business by learning to ride. Although the intention was to began western riding lessons, Vanessa and Susan both began riding english. As time went on, Vanessa started showing english pleasure and saddle seat in the Stock Show and other local shows. Vanessa trained her first dressage horse, Kentucky Rain, to second level and won many RMDS and USDF Championships at each level. She also trained her second dressage horse, Malaki, to second level and then found him a home as a hunter jumper.

              After an extensive search to find a horse that Vanessa would be able to grow and learn with, the search ended with an 8 year old Oldenburg gelding named Que Cir Que.  "Cirque" and Vanessa quickly became successful in the show ring.  Vanessa earned her Bronze Medal in 2003 at age 16. Vanessa and Cirque continued their success through the USAE Junior Team Championships and the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships. At age 17, Vanessa earned her Silver Medal.  See all accomplishments here.

             Vanessa has competed through Intermediare I, but has trained many movements above that.  Vanessa has been fortunate to have Sandra Hotz (FEI 3* Judge) as her trainer and mentor for nearly 10 years. In addition, Vanessa spent time training with Olympic judge Lilo Fore in Santa Rosa, CA and with David Wilson in Chino Hills, CA. Vanessa has been able to clinic with Sonja Vracko, Conrad Schumacher, Debbie McDonald, James Shaw and many others.