Event Trainer around Central VA (CVille to Richmond to Fredericksburg)

[AAHunterGal]

Hi all! I’m a H/J rider who isn’t happy with my options in the Richmond VA area, so I’m looking to move over to an eventing trainer instead.

I’m going to be getting a young OTTB and I feel like there’s no real need to specialize with a 2-3 YO horse anyways - I am a competent adult ammy who can get the job done 90% of the time and appreciates having a solid, soft pro around to get that extra 10% done (or when I’m busy with work to help out). Or just another good set of eyes on the ground.

The threads for Richmond area eventing barns are a bit out of date, so I wanted to start a new thread to get any good recommendations. I’m looking for:

1. Reasonable rates (Would like to come in under $1200 for both board and lessons)
2. Soft, effective rider/trainer who doesn’t rely on force to get the job done / listens to the horse
   2a. Familiarity with and knowledge of groundwork
3. Safe TO and good footing
4. Indoor would be a bonus but not necessary
5. Stays local in the winter (or Aiken might be doable but I can’t afford to go to FL every winter)

Any recommendations are appreciated! I"m willing to drive up to an hour away from RVA to find the right fit.

[grzywinskia]

Rebecca Barber Tyler does a lot of work with OTTBs

[dmveventer]

Gabby Dickerson is in that area somewhere. I don’t know anything about her program but I’ve seen her at several shows and she’s a lovely, quiet rider who always has really nice young horses.

[Legallygray86]

I’ve daydreamed about doing this one day and I would want to send a young OTTB to Kate Samuels in Free Union. I’ve followed her on social media for a while and I really like her approach. Lots of groundwork, long lining, and instilling confidence in the horse. No idea what she charges, I think her barn is pretty small.

[Janet]

Is Williamsburg doable for you?

Debbie Rodriguez is primarily a dressage instructor, but I know she has some successful eventing students, and she is a licensed Eventing Judge. I don’t have personal experience with her as an instructor, but have heard and seen good things.

[AAHunterGal]

Thank you for this recommendation! I’ve connected with Kate and fingers crossed it all works out!

[mdp9]

I’m surprised Kiki Osbourne hasn’t been referenced yet! She would be my go to in this area.

[RebeccaBarber]

Thanks! Yes, my program has a strong focus on young horses, including
OTTBs.