Training
Currently the facility has four trainers crossing three riding disciplines: Hunter/Jumpers,
Dressage and Western. Trainers Karen Busch and Jessi Rapheal moved to Hunter Equestrian
Center in July of 2006, when the facility first opened while the newest addition,
Ashley Rees, joined them in August of 2007. T he facility’s owner, Michell Anne
Hunter, specializes in colt starting.
Karen Busch is the proprietor of Got-2-Fly
Farm, a Hunter/Jumper show barn. Karen specializes in training Hunters and Jumpers
but her training includes development of young horses, sale horse prospects, and
she trains students and horses of all ages. Most of Karen’s clientele is presently
showing on various circuits in Southern California. Another main goal of Karen’s
training is to teach proper horsemanship, balanced riding (using dressage techniques),
and includes tons of bending/suppling exercises. In addition, to round out the regular
jumping training, her client’s trail ride at least once or twice a week which helps
prevent arena boredom for both the students and the horses.
Jessi Raphael is the
proprietor of Turning Leaf Farm. Jessi specializes in teaching beginners and children.
She credits her success to her mentor but her students testify to Jessi’s unfailing
dedication and seemingly never-ending patience. The students of Turning Leaf Farm
consistently show together and believe that Jessi has a special way of helping her
students feel confident and safe. Most of Jessi’s clientele also show on local show
circuits.