Train With Rachel
Our on site Manager and coach, Rachel Thomas, has competed successfully to:
Level 8 dressage (2nd in the Zilco musical series)
1.30 showjumping
South island 3 day event title (2 star)
Rachel’s experience across all disciplines and training in sports psychology means that she can offer support to riders seeking help in all areas of their riding. Rachel is a kind and patient instructor who believes in getting the fundamentals right. She develops training programs to suit each combination’s needs, and provides you with tips and exercises for you to take home. All levels and abilities are welcome.
Rachel has trained many young riders from scratch through to the Horse of the Year Show in Dressage, Showing, Para equestrian and Showjumping. With riders achieving reserve champion Pony of the Year, Saddle hunter of the Year, Para Equestrain of the Year and show jump riders being selected to jump in the extravaganza as well as competing successfully.
Currently, Rachel is focused on dressage with her gorgeous Grey mare, Velvet riding at advanced level. As a competitive rider, she remains up to date with the latest riding and training methods.
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Kind Words
Having Rachel to help me with both my horses has been a godsend. She is close by, her facilities make life very easy and I can confidently arrive at Grace Farms with both horses and manage on my own. Rachel has a clear and positive teaching methodology. Her focus on correct training, forward horses and a correct rider position has meant I can develop a clear understanding of every step I am taking. She understands my physical limitations, without allowing them to get in the way of correctness. Her sharp eye and clever instruction are allowing my Elementary and Advanced Medium horses to develop and for my riding to become more intuitive and advanced. As well, she makes my lessons fun and enjoyable, which at any level is so important.
-Jenny Kendall
‘As a dressage rider, I would like to express my upmost appreciation to my personal coach Rachel Thomas. In my experience I see a wise horse woman with an unselfish enthusiasm and witty humour whom always strives for solid correctness in the training scale. Through her professional delivery; the partnership between horse and rider is key. Furthermore, with a goal driven attitude she instructs with empathy, passion and direction; allowing learning to be enjoyable. As my personal coach for many years my loyalty lies in Rachel as my true equine mentor. ‘
-Frances Dick