BACKGROUND & PHILOSOPHY

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Joanna began riding at the age of seven after moving into the horse-friendly community of Thousand Oaks, California. Her riding foundation was formed by combining an equitation and over-fences education from the prestigious Foxfield Riding Academy in Westlake Village, California, along with countless hours spent riding in the open fields and canyons of the Conejo Valley.

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Her passion for horses inspired her to never pass up an opportunity to get involved in any “horsey” activities that were presented. This open minded approach led to a well-rounded education that includes dressage, eventing, hunter/jumper, gymkhana, trail, schooling race horses, driven dressage, combined driving and even riding in parades. Every horse in Joanna’s life provided the opportunity for growth and understanding; and, allowed Joanna to develop insight into analysis of the equine as an individual and develop each to their own potential.

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Dressage has always played a fundamental role in Joanna’s training approach. She believes a complete understanding and application of the basics translate to any discipline. Joanna teaches and trains with a patient and kind approach; placing emphasis on correct position of the rider, complete understanding of the use of the aids, knowledge of the biomechanics of the horse and ultimately developing clear communication between horse and rider.

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Joanna has ridden, trained and competed in dressage through the Grand Prix level and ridden, trained and competed in eventing through the Preliminary level.