I have been riding horses since I could sit up! I started riding and competing in hunt seat and jumping around the age of 5 with my first trainer, Karen O'Neil. Around the age of 9, I started riding my moms FEI school master, Angelo, and I was hooked. He taught me, tattled on me and turned me into a very strong young rider with the help of my first dressage trainer, Colleen Walker. I continued to compete on my Percheron/Quarter Horse mare, Hayley's Comet. My parents purchased her from an auction for $1000 and she ended up helping me earn many championship titles. My Dutch Warmblood gelding, Jubilee, taught me how to ride sensitive horses with a traumatic past. Jubilee was my first experience developing a horse from first level to FEI. I found my love for young horses with my Holstiener mare, Corrianna. As a junior rider, she and I competed in the Open Markel 4yr old Talent Search and placed third behind very well known young horse trainers! Needless to say, I'd found my niche!

I have earned my USDF Bronze and Silver Medals. I have shown extensively including yearly state championship shows and CDI competitions, competing from Introductory Level to FEI. I have participated in many clinics with esteemed trainers such as Kathleen Raine, Gerhard Politz, Jan Curtis, David Wightman, Sarah Lockman and Scott Hassler. I have tons of experience gently starting young horses and competing in young horse classes. In 2017, I competed successfully in the USEF 4yr old classes, as well as the FEI 5yr old classes. At the 2017 CDS Championships, Donna Rubina and I earned the CDS Horse of the Year title and placed 3rd in the 4yr old futurity. I started Donna Rubina after being imported by her loving owner, Susan Ortiz. I understand the proper development of a young horse and take the time to build their confidence and earn their trust. I am also proficient in equine rehab and I will take the time to rehab your horse properly. I take great pride in my riding and training and really look forward to new projects!

 

-Hayley Buckingham