Coaches
Denise Rathnam
Owner of Matsqui Stables
I got my first pony Dutchess when I was 9, became a wrangler at 12, and a guide at 15. Helping my parents run a ranch was a lot of work, but looking back I realize how invaluable it was. Not only did it keep me out of trouble, but built my confidence as a person, gave me an interesting skill set, and taught me responsibility and good work ethic! Now I am a CHA Certified instructor who is passionate about teaching people how to ride and develop their horsemanship skills. I am committed to customizing my coaching to accommodate for all communication styles, levels of learning and riding abilities. Teaching is my passion and I am excited to dedicate my life to it!
Ashley
Hunter / Jumper Coach
My love for horses started from the moment I had my first ride on the coin-operated horse inside the grocery store in Ontario, where I was born and raised. I started riding lessons at the age of 7 and purchased my first horse during my teenage years. I actively competed in hunter/jumper shows and enjoyed working in the horse industry throughout high school. I attended Kemptville College and received my Equine Management Certificate and my certification as an instructor through the Ontario Equestrian Federation. Once I completed my post-secondary education I headed out west, and worked as a coach, barn manager and camp director, at various equestrian centres. I still have a strong love for horses and competing, and enjoy sharing my passion with my students.
I continue to develop my riding and coaching skills with my coach, and I am looking forward to competing in the upcoming season on my new mount, Georgie (shown in picture). I love challenging my students in a safe and fun environment and teaching them how to become effective riders. My ultimate goal is to assist my students in developing and honing their riding skills, to allow them to be the best that they can be!
Aja
Western Coach
As a young teenager my introduction to horses was love at first sight. At the age of 17 I was very blessed to be mentored by a trainer who took me under her wing and introduced me to the world of horsemanship. Like most people in this industry my career started with mucking stalls, fixing fences, stacking hay, grooming horses, and everyday around the farm chores. My career quickly evolved from regular farm hand duties to training young horses, running summer camps, teaching beginner – intermediate riding lessons, even aiding in the delivery of foals. I now have certifications in equine nutrition/pasture management, equine first aid and I am a CHA certified riding coach.
I have done many things on horseback from pushing cattle around to riding big hunter horses and I will admit my heart belongs to the western world. My true love however is building strong lasting relationships between horse and rider and helping dedicated riders meet their goals. I also believe in having well rounded, confident and balanced riders in and out of the saddle so I am committed to teaching the basics on the ground developing knowledge in caring for these great animals. Don’t despise the day of small beginnings you never know how far cleaning a couple stalls, stacking some hay and a couple riding lessons can take you.