Linda Smith

Linda Smith, instructor and trainer, has over 25 years experience working with horses and riders.  Linda’s interest in animal training began at a very young age with the family dog.  She was lucky enough to have an Aunt with horses and spent summers learning to ride bareback with a halter and lead rope, in the woods of North Carolina, until she began formal lessons at the age of 13.

 

She did Hunters as a Junior and made the transition to Dressage in her 20’s.  Linda has worked extensively with Lynne Kimball Davis, and has also trained with Jodi Pearson Keating and our own Stephie Baer.  She has also had the opportunity to learn from Janet Foy, Jacqui Brooks, Bill McMullin, and a myriad of other clinicians, both as a participant and an auditor.  She considers herself not only a teacher, but also a student; learning something new every day!  She continues to expand her knowledge of riding and equine behavior, training, nutrition, and health in all ways possible.

 

Linda is an active member of CRDA and sits on the Board of Directors.  She is passionate about bringing Dressage to all disciplines of riding, as she believes any horse going forward and over their topline is going to be a healthier and sounder athlete, as well as produce a happier rider.  She has an exceptional ability to tap into what motivates each student, and finds it immensely fulfilling to get new riders started on their journey with horses; mentoring students in the ways of good horsemanship with positive encouragement, to foster confidence in both rider and horse.

 

School horses are available for those who do not have a horse of their own or who are just beginning.  Linda’s safe and nurturing manner provides an excellent environment to learn riding and horse care.

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