Big Name Trainers

Hilda Gurney, Steffen Peters, Jan Ebeling, Charlotte DuJardin ...

There are a lot of big name dressage trainers out there, most of whom we'll never get to meet.

I am proud to say that my own trainer, the always awesome Chemaine Hurtado, is on her way to joining that illustrious group of names. That's my tip for today by the way: get in with someone before they hit the big time, and then you're golden!

Chemaine is a resident trainer based at CastleRock Farms in Moorpark, California where she operates Symphony Dressage Stables. Her mission is to help dressage riders reach their goals in and out of the show ring. I can certainly attest to that. That's one of the things I love most about Chemaine - her dedication to her students' success. I always know she's rooting for me; I am not just a paycheck to her. She's always so proud of all her students and wants nothing but the best for us and our horses.

Just recently Chemaine was asked to be a runway model at Dressage Extension's Fashion show. Do you know who else was there? Mrs. Ann Romney!! That's the big time, folks.

Chemaine Hurtado working the runway dressed to the nines!

Last year, she was invited to be the demo rider for Chris Cox at Horse Expo Pomona. Chris got tons of positive feedback from his fans that illustrated how much people liked watching Chemaine and Chris work together. Here's a video of the demonstration.

Chemaine also has a Yoga Ball series on YouTube that is helpful for all levels of riders. Grab your medicine ball and ride along with her!

There's more! She's even done an online commercial for Grand Meadows products.

But the kicker? The real making it to the top moment is that she's been invited to be the dressage clinician at the 2016 Horse Expo in Pomona! How awesome will it be to see her name listed with the likes of Clinton Anderson?

I can't wait to see her name listed as a Clinician!

I attend Horse Expo (formerly Equine Affaire) in Pomona every year. I've seen a lot of big name trainers and have enjoyed watching them work. I am so excited for Chemaine to have this opportunity to increase her exposure locally as well as to work with so many national trainers of other disciplines.

Not only is she an excellent rider and teacher, but she has a special ability for making the sport fun and accessible for even the most beginner rider. Being a demo rider for her would be way too much fun, but that's probably a pie in the sky deal. Who wouldn't want that job? Even helping out in a booth would be totally amazing.

So there you have it - I think I can officially claim that I ride with a BIG NAME trainer! Oh, and before I forget, those of you who enjoy your daily dose of Bakersfield Dressage will have to get your fix elsewhere; we'll be in Phoenix for the weekend at a wedding. See you on Monday!