Nicky Kurty
Oakwood Manor booth 219, 220

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Nicky Kurty (Barrel Racing, Ranch Riding) – An accomplished and celebrated horsewoman, Nicky Kurty has been training and competing for over 40 years. Nicky is associated with a long list of accolades that demonstrate her dedication to the equine industry. She has a diverse client base including riders of pleasure, horsemanship, trail, ranch riding, and barrel racing horses. She taught fifth grade for 15 years while training and coaching on the side. Eventually, the horses won out and she is living the dream of spending all day every day with horses and their people. She currently competes throughout the East Coast as well as stretching out as far as Texas/Oklahoma and Canada.

Nicky focuses on developing versatile educated horses and riders. Along with personally competing in barrel racing, ranch riding, and western dressage, she stays busy coaching the Cornell University Western Equestrian Team, judging open, 4H, and ranch horse shows, and offering clinics. As a barrel racer, she competes at futurities, NBHAs, and pro rodeos. As a ranch horse rider and trainer, she has produced a World Champion, ridden and coached her riders to numerous top tens at the All American Quarter Horse Congress, as well as local and AQHA Circuit Championships.

Here is a partial list of her accomplishments:
• AQHA World Show Top Ten Finishes
• ARHA World and Reserve World Champion
• NBHA Colonial National Top 5
• NBHA New York State Champion
• BFA World Championship Top Ten
• All American Quarter Horse Congress numerous Top Ten finishes
• Midland Barrel race $10,000 added winner of the entire first division
• 3x Futurity Winner
• 3x Arena Record Setter
• Pro and Amateur Rodeo winner – numerous APRA and IPRA wins, Bullride Mania Finals Champion, Hardway Rodeo wins, finals champion, and year-end champion.

Tina Ann Legno
Alivio Equestrian Academy booth S1

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Tina Ann Legno (Dressage, Horsemanship) – has been involved with horses professionally for 31 years. She brings a lifetime of experience and knowledge to the horse industry for those who are looking to better their relationship with their horse. Whether it is on the ground or in the saddle, Tina can provide long-lasting solutions to everyday issues that make sense to the horse. Happy Horse Equals Happy Rider.

Through the years, as Tina’s training and experience progressed, she found a revolutionary style of horsemanship that improves the lives of horses through a methodical approach of balanced, gymnastic exercises, striving for perfection in movement, and always keeping the horse’s needs first. Studying under many Olympic-level clinicians and Instructors, she channeled in to work with a world-renowned riding master, for 13 years. This work created sound, happy, healthy, round horses and totally made sense to the horses. The horses all improved and thrived. Tina took unsound, crazy horses and changed their lives for the better. She committed to preserve the art of horsemanship for the love of the horses.

The love and compassion Tina has for horses has given her the strength and courage to stand up for them and educate people all over the US on ways to improve Balance and Behavior through setting healthy boundaries. Then taking it to another level under saddle that provides all riders the ability to understand the importance of rider position and effective aids. Creating a centered horse and rider. From foals to geriatric horses, miniatures to donkeys, it has been her mission to provide solutions that make sense to these sentient beings and give them the chance to thrive. Because of the horse, Tina has committed her life to giving them a better one and in return, they have given her a purpose to live.

Holly Linz
USA Working Equitation booth 1221

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Holly Linz (Working Equitation) – barn manager and head trainer Holly always puts the health and happiness of the horse and rider first, and insists that barn staff treat all boarded horses as though they were their own. She understands that a happy horse makes for a happy owner. Holly runs her own boarding facility so she can ensure all horses in her training program, including her own, are provided the most ideal environment to be the most capable riding partners they can be. A horse’s environment has a huge impact on how happy and productive they can be.

Holly is an accomplished rider, trainer, and clinician. She has studied closely under Felicitas von Neuman Cosel for over 20 years and has worked with numerous other national level Dressage and Working Equitation trainers and judges. Holly’s training methods incorporate Classical Dressage principles and natural horsemanship to build dynamic understanding and communication between horses and riders. She regularly rides with top trainers and judges in multiple disciplines to continually enhance her experience and skill set.

John Lyons
Training With Trust booth 314, 315

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

John Lyons (Natural Horsemanship) – Biography coming soon

Dr. Erika Machtinger
Penn State Ext. Equine Program booth 608, 609

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Dr. Erika Machtinger (Insect Management) – holds a B.S. from the University of Delaware in Wildlife Conservation and Ecology, and a MSc and PhD in Entomology from the University of Florida. She has focused on studying biological control agents of filth flies affecting livestock and equine facilities, and integrated tick management. Currently, Dr. Machtinger is an Assistant Professor of Entomology at Penn State University. Along with being an entomologist, Erika is also a Certified Wildlife Biologist®. Erika has 33 scientific publications in print or review, and three book chapters. She has been awarded over $2.9 million in research funding. As the principal investigator for the Veterinary Entomology Laboratory, her research focuses on arthropod pests of veterinary concern. Erika has also been an equestrian for over 30 years. She has owned her own farm,  competed through the intermediate level in eventing and is a USDF silver medalist. She is currently promoting her young mare, Bright Opposition, that she bred for eventing.

Tik Maynard
CopperlineEquestrian.com

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Tik Maynard (Eventing) – Tik began riding with the Vancouver Pony Club, in Southlands, British Columbia. After achieving his ‘A’ rating, he began competing in Modern Pentathlon, where he represented Canada at three World Championships, and the 2007 Pan– American Games. In 2008, Maynard began a journey to improve his riding. From Germany to Florida, from Alberta to Texas, and from Florida to New Jersey, Maynard was willing to go wherever he had to, to learn from the best. Along the way he discovered something more important: horsemanship. It is that idea that continues to motivate him.

Today, Maynard searches out knowledge from many sources, but his most important mentors are his parents and his wife.  His work combines 3-Day Eventing and Horsemanship.  He is married to US Eventing Team Member Sinead Halpin-Maynard. Together they run Copperline Farm in Citra, Florida. Maynard has always been a passionate book lover. He has written a children’s story, published by REAL magazine, has won the Malahat Review Open Season Award, and has twice been shortlisted for the CBC Literary Awards for his non– fiction works.

Grace McDonald
Graceful Strides Mobile Massage Therapy booth 420, 421

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Grace McDonald (Equine Bodywork) – is Nationally Certified in Equine Massage Therapy. She is a Sports, TMJ, and Equine Massage Therapist based out of Fayetteville, PA. Grace is licensed in Human Massage in PA, NJ, TN, and VA. She specializes in biomechanics and is known for her intuitive ability to observe the movement and conformation of the horse and identify key components that impact function and mobility to improve soundness and provide comfort and healing.

Grace is actively involved in the Jr. Rodeo Circuit, currently sponsoring 7 young riders. She is passionate and generously gives a large amount of her time, talent, and ability to support and educate the youth of today’s equine industry. She spends her time working with recreational and competitive horses; helping owners, riders, and horse enthusiasts of all ages connect on a much deeper level with their equine partners through empathy and understanding that horses are living beings that need and deserve our care and respect. Gracie brings an interesting outlook and perspective on horse and rider biomechanics; providing comfort for both horse and rider

Guy McLean
Horsemanship with Guy McLean booth 110-112
Theatre Equus Performer

– Fri, Sat, 8:30PM, Large Arena (2nd Floor, End of Hallway)
Theatre Equus, A Musical Equine Review (Separate Ticket Required)

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Guy McLean (General Training) – is a self-taught Australian Horseman who has entertained, inspired, and educated thousands of Australians from all walks of life. Guy arrived in the USA in June 2010 with his four Australian-bred Horses and commenced his USA-wide tour.

Since 1999, Guy and his equine team led by Nugget (the father of Guy’s 3 Dun Horses) have been featured in many Australian events including: Royal shows, Equitana Asia Pacific, major equestrian festivals, international rodeos, and Australia’s famous “Man from Snowy River Festival”. One of Guy’s talents is bush poetry and he has twice been crowned Australian Bush Poet Champion.

In 2002 and 2006 Guy received the great honor of being named an official ‘Ambassador of the Outback’ and through his performances of horsemanship, bush poetry, and whip cracking he has helped to keep the traditions of the bush and the true Aussie Stockman alive. In 2005 Guy was the inaugural winner of Equitana’s, ‘Way of the Horse’ young horse starting competition and it was the methods he learned in the Queensland bush under the watchful eye of many a young horse that brought him victory.

Since being in the USA, Guy and his equine team have had the honor of performing at the World Equestrian Games 2010 held in Lexington, KY, as a nightly pre-show performer at the National Finals Rodeo 2010 in Las Vegas and at many other events near his home base of Allen, Texas.

Reed Messer 
Penn State 4H Horse Prog. booth 610, 611 

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Reed Messer (Horsemanship) – is a Pennsylvania State 4-H Horse Program member of the Lucky 7 4-H Club outside of Pittsburgh, PA and is also a member of Team Horsepower, a horsemanship skills leadership program for teens. Reed enjoys competing in the Ranch Horse classes with his partner Cash and was a PA State Horse Show Qualifier last two years. In addition to riding his horse, Reed really enjoys playing virtual reality video games and was excited to take part in and be recognized as both the Horse category and the Overall winner of the DIVE4AG Challenge with Oregon State University last year. Reed hopes to continue to share his experience with horses through technology and to encourage other teens to not let being different stop them from doing what they love.

Michelle Miller
Wilson College booth 516

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Michelle Miller (Riding Programs) – has loved horses her whole life.  As a young girl, she was introduced to horseback riding through equestrian summer camps where she fell in love with the sport.  After her camp experience ended, she sought out a local therapeutic barn where she volunteered in exchange for riding lessons. It was here that she discovered her path forward in life, to help others through therapeutic riding and equine assisted activities. Michelle achieved a Bachelor of Science degree from Wilson College in the spring of 2021, majoring in equine facilitated therapeutics (EFT) and minoring in entrepreneurship and small business management.  After graduation, she became a certified therapeutic riding instructor through the Council for Education and Certification in Therapeutic Horsemanship (CECTH). That summer, she taught riding lessons at a summer camp and became a lifetime member of the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH).

In the fall of 2021, Michelle was hired by an established lesson barn to start a therapeutic riding program. As the therapeutic program grew, her role in the business did as well. After growing the program to success, coaching the stable’s Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) Hunt Seat team, and assisting in the training and management of the herd, Michelle took a job at her alma mater, Wilson College, teaching equitation classes and helping maintain the health of the school herd. After a year, she began her master’s degree online in Organizational Leadership and moved to a lecturer position, teaching primarily in the EFT major and teaching track.

Norma Moore
PA Equine Council booth 212-214, 235-237

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Norma Moore (Saddle Fit) – has lifelong roots in the horse industry. She attended Kentucky Horseshoeing School in 1986 and had a long career as a farrier. She has worn many hats, including working in the harness racing industry and as a veterinary assistant. She attended the Saddle Fit 4 Life Academy, taught by Jochen Schleese and studied Western Saddle Fitting under Rod Nikkel. Today she spends her me between saddle fitting and hosting rides at Jersey Maples Farm, her husband’s nearly 200-year-old farm in Bradford County PA.

Curtis Pierce
Deep Creek Farm booth S7
Theatre Equus Performer

– Fri, Sat, 8:30PM, Large Arena (2nd Floor, End of Hallway)
Theatre Equus, A Musical Equine Review (Separate Ticket Required)

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Curtis Pierce (Driving) – For over 30 years Curtis has worked with many trainers, instructors, and breeds. During this time he developed a great foundation for training horses to drive and ride. As a professional technical instructor, he can apply the right techniques to better relate the information and skills needed to drive and ride. Curtis has trained, coached, and competed in pleasure and combined driving competitions. He has also judged pleasure driving shows and combination schooling shows.

Dr. Catherine Radtke
Penn State Ext. Equine Program booth 608, 609

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Dr. Catherine Radtke (Restorative Medicine) – is head of surgery and owner of Abington Equine Hospital in State College area. She obtained her degree in veterinary medicine from the University of Wisconsin Madison. After completing a one-year in-hospital rotating internship at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, KY, she moved on to work for the state of Kentucky as a Thoroughbred race track regulatory veterinarian for two years. From there, she completed a one-year orthopedic surgery fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center, followed by a three-year large animal surgical residency program and a PhD in regenerative medicine at the University of Prince Edward Island, Atlantic Veterinary College. Dr. Radtke then continued at the Atlantic Veterinary College as an assistant professor of large animal surgery for 2 years before moving back to PA to start Abington Equine Hospital.

Betty Ryberg
Betty A Ryberg LLC

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Betty Ryberg (Farm Owner Legal Matters) – Biography coming soon.

Anastasia Schiavi
Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue booth B6-B8

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Anastasia Schiavi (Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue) – is appearing with Christine Hajek, President of Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue. Licensed through Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue, Anastasia and her counterpart, Christine, have years of experience responding to all types of equine emergencies. They will teach how to safely rescue a horse from a bad situation using items easily located in a barn.

Warwick Schiller 
Warwick Schiller Attuned Horsemanship booth S16

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Warwick Schiller (Reining, Horsemanship) is a lifelong equestrian of varying disciplines. Warwick Schiller moved from his home country of Australia in his early twenties to the United States to pursue his dream of training horses. He focused his competitive efforts on Reining, eventually becoming an NRHA (National Reining Horse Association) Reserve World Champion and representing Australia at the 2010 & 2018 World Equestrian Games. His unique ability to convey his knowledge to others became apparent when he successfully went on to coach individuals who garnered coveted reining titles such as NRHA World Champions, NRHA Rookie of the Year, Australian Champions, U.S. Champions and a fellow WEG team member.

Warwick’s modern training philosophy focuses on creating trust and connection between horse and human by emphasizing the importance of the horse’s mental well-being throughout the training process. Having spent most of his life training professional reining horses, he now spends his time solving behavioral issues across disciplines and empowering individuals with the tools and mindsets needed to create their own trusting partnerships with their horses.

Since publishing his first training video on Youtube in 2011, Warwick has created a vast online community founded on personal growth, positivity, and a shared passion for the well-being of horses. In addition to his online video library with over 900 real-time training videos, Warwick has created The Journey On Podcast, which interviews inspirational horse people from all over the world and shares their stories and mindsets.

Leigha Schrader 
Days End Farm Horse Rescue booth S16

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Leigha Schrader (Rescue Horse Training, Liberty, Positive Reinforcement) began her journey with horses in 2009 as a volunteer for Days End Farm Horse Rescue (DEFHR), in Howard County, Maryland, a nationally recognized 58-acre facility for abused and neglected horses seized by animal protection and law enforcement agencies. At the time, she had no horse experience, but she did have a desire to learn and big goals to achieve. In 2013, she started interning under DEFHR’s head trainer, Sara Strauss, and under Sara’s guidance and extensive experience, she started training and working with the horses in DEFHR’s care. In 2016, Leigha was hired on as a horse trainer to join DEFHR’s team professionally.

Leigha specializes in liberty horsemanship, colt starting, trick work, and finding balance in all areas of horsemanship. She incorporates positive reinforcement in her training and prioritizes the horse’s individual learning style: “Methods are not universal. If you want to find success, look at the horse as an individual.” Leigha is best known for her liberty performances with rescue horses, showcasing the power, strength, and ability that these magnificent animals can offer. Whether she’s teaching tricks, practicing groundwork, or training under saddle, Leigha’s goal is to encourage compassionate horsemanship and care for all equines.

Fran Severn 
Horse Writer’s booth 224

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Fran Severn (Horses in Your Life) – is a freelance writer and broadcaster who grew up in the city but was determined to get horses in her life. After earning her degree in Mass Communications, she worked in Louisville, KY, where she covered the Kentucky Derby, events at the Kentucky Horse Park, and finally bought her first horse. Moving to England with her Air Force husband, she discovered dressage and continued her training when she returned to the states. She is the author of “Riders of a Certain Age: Your Guide to Loving Horses Mid-Life and Beyond”, “Creating Your Journey,” “Barn Fires: Preventing a Disaster”, and “The Riders of a Certain Age Book of Barn Hacks”. Her work has appeared in Horse Illustrated, USDF Connection, Newsday, The Trail Rider, Western Horseman, Dog Fancy, and Games. She’s written about the exclusive ‘tailgate’ party at the Royal Enclosure at the Ascot races, shipping horses to the Olympics, riding on Civil War battlefields, and the chuckwagon races at the Calgary Stampede. She lives in Newark, Delaware with her husband and fox-and-deer obsessed dog.

Rick Shaffer
Mason Dixon Paso Fino Horse Assoc. booth B3

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Rick Shaffer (Trail Horse Test Program & Gaited Horses) – is the full-time trainer at R&S Paso Fino Stables, an international and national judge, and trainer of all breeds gaited and non-gaited. Although he specializes in gaited horses, Rick’s compassionate, patient, and consistent methods bring out the best in all the horses he trains. Rick has been breeding and training Paso Fino horses for show and trail for over 35 years. He is the founder of the Trail Horse Test program, which is designed to enhance and promote the skills of trail riders and their horses. Rick’s teaching ensures that owners have the skills and confidence to build and maintain an important bond with their horses that will serve them well in all of their equine pursuits. Rick is a recorded USEF judge, certified judge for the Paso Fino Horse Assoc., an equine clinician who tailors clinics for clients, and professional trainer of all breeds.

Carolann Sharpe 
Trail Riding & Camping booth 417

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Carolann Sharpe (Trails, Horse Camping) – is a passionate equestrian and dedicated advocate for outdoor recreational activities, currently serving as the President of Trail Riders of Today. With over 20 years of experience in equine management and trail advocacy, Carolann has become a prominent leader in the equestrian community, recognized for her commitment to preserving natural spaces for all trail enthusiasts.

A lifelong lover of horses and the great outdoors, Carolann did not grow up riding in the scenic hills. She took the scary plunge into horses at 35 years old. This fueled her passion for sustainable trail practices and conservation initiatives. Her unique blend of knowledge and enthusiasm led her to join Trail Riders of Today, where she has spent the last decade working on various committees focused on improving trail access, safety, and community engagement.

Under her leadership, Trail Riders of Today has successfully launched numerous programs aimed at educating riders about responsible trail usage and the importance of protecting our natural resources. Carolann is also instrumental in fostering partnerships with local governments, conservation groups, and equestrian organizations to ensure that trails remain open and accessible for future generations.

In addition to her work with Trail Riders of Today, Carolann is an avid trail rider and horse camping that enjoys organizing community events that promote trail riding culture. Her commitment to inclusivity is evident in her efforts to create programs that welcome riders of all skill levels and backgrounds into the trail riding community.

Carolann’s vision for Trail Riders of Today is one of unity, education, and sustainability, with a focus on building a vibrant community that celebrates the joys of trail riding while preserving the beauty of the landscapes we cherish. Her charisma and leadership inspire those around her, making her a respected figure in the equestrian world and a champion for trails and riders alike.

Danielle Smarsh, PhD, PAS 
Penn State Ext. Equine Program booth 608, 609

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Dr. Danielle Smarsh (Equine Parasites) – is an Assistant Professor of Equine Science and Equine Extension Specialist in the Department of Animal Science at Penn State University.  She moved back to the Northeast after spending 4.5 years teaching in the Animal Science Department at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Dr.  Smarsh grew up riding horses in Hunterdon County, New Jersey.  She received her BS in Animal Science from the University of Delaware and her PhD in Equine Exercise Physiology from Rutgers University.  Her equine research involved looking at the effects of age and training on antioxidants and oxidative stress in Standardbreds.   Current research projects involve understanding the Pennsylvania horse industry and looking at the effects of diet and exercise on gastrointestinal health in horses. She teaches several undergraduate classes at Penn State and runs statewide extension programs for adult horse owners on a variety of topics, including parasite control, basic health care, and nutrition.

Savannah Sowers
Penn 4-H Horse Program booth 610, 611

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Savannah Sowers (Horsemanship) – Team HorsePower is a group of teens selected from across the state of Pennsylvania to be ambassadors for the 4-H Horse and Pony program. Their mission is to teach horsemanship and safety skills at clinics, camps, and workshops, as well as promote the 4-H program through activities at events from the local to state level. The members come from a wide range of equine disciplines. Savannah Sowers is co-leading the team at Horse World Expo. She has led and helped with numerous demonstrations and presentations at county and state levels on a variety of topics including “Preparing Your Horse for the Show Ring” and “Drills for Barrel Horses”. She has participated and shown in multiple disciplines such as jumping, dressage, trail, ranch horse, and barrel racing.

Dr. Rebecca Splan 
Penn State Ext. Equine Program booth 608, 609

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Dr. Rebecca Splan (Equine Breeding) – is a Professor of Equine Science & Management at Delaware Valley University in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Splan received her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Michigan State University, and her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Animal Breeding and Genetics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Before joining the faculty at DelVal, Dr. Splan taught undergraduate and graduate courses in equine and animal science at the University of Minnesota, Sul Ross State University, and Virginia Tech, where she also directed its nationally recognized sport horse breeding program. She is passionate about equine breeding and the genetic improvement of horses and has served on the Board of Directors for the International Sporthorse Registry/Oldenburg Registry North America, the Virginia Arabian Horse Association, and the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (now the Livestock Conservancy). Dr. Splan is a United States Dressage Federation Bronze Medalist and “L” Program graduate with honors, and more recently, has enjoyed competing regionally and nationally in AQHA Ranch Riding events.

Burt Staniar, PhD 
Penn State Univ. booth 623, 624

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Burt Staniar, PhD (Equine Nutrition) – is an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Science at Penn State University, where he has been a faculty member since 2007. He teaches courses ranging from Introductory Equine Science to Advanced Equine Nutrition and serves as the advisor for the Equine Research Team, an undergraduate organization dedicated to providing students with hands-on opportunities to engage in equine research. Dr. Staniar earned his PhD and completed a post-doc at Virginia Tech, where he studied nutrition’s impact on cartilage and skeletal development in Thoroughbred horses. His early research focused on how dietary energy sources influence growth factors such as insulin-like growth factor I and growth hormone. Currently, his research emphasizes gastrointestinal health in horses, investigating systemic inflammation, gut permeability, and diet-related health concerns. By integrating research and teaching, Dr. Staniar aims to advance the understanding of equine science to improve health, performance, and management practices.

United Liberty Horse Archers
Booth S13
Equi-Tainment Performances Daily

– Thurs 2PM, Fri 2PM, Sat 5PM, Sun 2PM, Equine Arena (2nd Floor, to the Right) 
Appearing in Equ-Tainment Daily

Biography
United Liberty Horse Archers (Mounted Archery) – brings knowledge from 20+ years in the horse industry.  Ted Staudt competed in the World Horseback Archery Championships in Korea in 2017 as well as local competitions and holds a degree from the University of Findlay in Equine Studies & Equine Business Management.

Kellie Andrews has competed in Texas and locally. She successfully organized the PA Open Mounted Archery Competition in 2015, 2016 & 2017 and holds certification as an NHAA level 2 Mounted Archery Instructor.

Allyson Villareale 
Penn State Ext. Equine Program booth 608, 609

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Allyson Villareale (School Horses) – is the Equestrian Center Stable Manager for the Department of Equine Science and Management at Delaware Valley University (DelVal) in Doylestown, PA. She manages a herd of 40 or more school horses who are used in riding, driving and management courses for the DelVal Equine curriculum and equestrian teams. Additionally, she supervises between 25 and 30 Equestrian Center student staff workers. She regularly mentors’ students for a donor-sponsored Equine Welfare Internship, promoting best practices in care for the on-campus teaching herd. Recently, she taught a class at DelVal called Selecting and Maintaining the Lesson Horse. Ally has a B.S. in Equine Management, with a specialization in Instruction and Training from Delaware Valley University. She is certified through the British Horse Society Stage III. She lives on the DelVal campus with her son, Tommy, and their two dogs, Maisie and Rocky.

Tracy Wagner
TracyWagnerTraining.com 

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Tracy Wagner (General Training) – is a lifelong hands-on horsewoman and highly respected professional horse trainer, specializing in helping horse people with real everyday issues through a back-to-basics approach that is often missed. Her holistic approach to riding and training is based on her deep intuitive understanding of the multi-faceted relationship between the mind and body of both horse and rider and her unique ability to communicate that understanding to her students.

She encourages her students to “think outside the box.” She teaches horses to be calm, confident, and workmanlike, while also addressing the horse’s questions of motion, balance, resistance, momentum, and friction while attempting to carry a rider. Tracy uses a combination of natural horsemanship, classical dressage, trick training, bridle-less riding, liberty work, and more to create willing partnerships with her horses.

As a certified master instructor, she currently gives clinics and instruction to a variety of students from different backgrounds – from the weekend trail warrior to the competitor with a nervous horse; riders of all ages, interests, and ability levels. Her lessons are built on the concept of confidence building and keeping things “interesting” to achieve not only safer riding but also better performance in the competition arena.

Oliva Watson 
Penn State Ext. Equine Program booth 608, 609

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Olivia Watson (Donkey Nutrition) – is originally from a small town in Virginia. In 2016, she began her undergraduate career at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in animal science in 2019. After graduation, she continued working for a mixed animal veterinary practice with a focus in equine medicine. Throughout her time at the veterinary clinic, she became very interested in preventative healthcare and nutrition. In 2021, she pursued a master’s degree in animal science with a focus in equine nutrition. Over the past two years, she was able to participate in several extension events, both in 4-H and adult education, an internship with Purina Farms and assisted in leading students on an equine industries trip through Ireland. She completed her master’s in August of 2023 and is excited to now be serving as the equine extension educator for the western region of Pennsylvania.

Lisa Weiss, LCSW 
EquestrianMentalWellness.com

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography
Lisa Weiss, LCSW (Equestrian Mental Wellness) – specializes in equestrian mental health and trauma. As an equestrian herself, she has a deep understanding of the connection we have with our horses. With individual psychotherapy, Lisa works with clients who have experienced trauma, anxiety and grief related to the equestrian world. Her work doesn’t stop there. Lisa is fiercely passionate about education. She believes that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to understanding and addressing mental health issues within the equestrian community. She is committed to sharing her expertise through educational talks, workshops, and resources aimed at empowering equestrians with the tools they need to thrive.

Wayne Williams
Speaking of Horses with Wayne Williams
Theatre Equus Director/Announcer & Horse World Expo Announcer

– Announcing throughout the day during Horse World Expo
– Special appearance during Theatre Equus, Friday & Saturday Evening 

Biography

Wayne Williams (Announcer/Director) – has a long background in Radio and TV both on the air as a disc jockey as well as a newscaster along with working behind the scenes in sales and production. Mr. Williams has always been involved with horses. Since the age of 6, he has involved himself with horses. He has appeared in Parades from the Indianapolis 500 Parade to the Rose Bowl Parade, exhibited in Open and Palomino shows, and most recently, he and his wife Pat pay tribute to Roy Rogers and Dale Evans on Horseback with Silver Saddles and costumes of the era. Mr. Williams has totally dedicated himself to the Equine Industry since 1985 when a part-time passion became a full-time career.

Mr. Williams began mixing his announcing background with horses as the “Voice of Many Horse Fairs”. He has become the “Voice” of over 20 top Horse Expo’s Nationwide and in Canada. He also aids many Expos in presenting entertainment on horseback and various equine acts. He has announced from Sacramento to Baltimore including Horse World Expo and Equitana USA. His accomplishments include being the Equine Entertainment MC at the World Equestrian Games 2010 in Lexington KY, Rose Parade Equestfest 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023, Producer/Director and MC in Pasadena, working with the Indy 500 Parade, Culver Military Academies, the Voice of Breyerfest at the Kentucky Horse Park for 20 years and Many More! He has been Directing and Hosting the “Theater Equus” evening show at Harrisburg, PA during the Horse World Expo for 20 years as well as the “Mane Event” in Denver and “Horses at Night” North Dakota Horse Expo.

For relaxation, Wayne enjoys Trail Riding and camping with his wife Pat, in addition to riding in parades and being the man “Behind the Microphone”. He is the Host of “Speaking of Horses” TV and Radio which continually brings a variety of Equine information to you at your fingertips on FRTV and Equus Television Wellington. Check out “Speaking of Horses” TV on FRTV Farm n Ranch Streaming on Fire TV, Roku, Google Play, or Equus Television, Wellington, FL, and streaming on demand.

Fred Win
Fred Win Horsemanship booth location pending
Theatre Equus Performer

– Fri, Sat, 8:30PM, Large Arena (2nd Floor, End of Hallway)
Theatre Equus, A Musical Equine Review (Separate Ticket Required)

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Fred Win (Reining, Western Dressage, Liberty) – is a Burmese American who was born with a partial right leg. Despite that, his disability does not define who he is today. He holds multiple championships in various equestrian disciplines and is known as the king of freestyle. Fred is an internationally renowned clinician & judge and a multi-award winning, inspirational & sensational equine entertainer, performing at many prestigious events. He is also a successful attorney at law and speaks multiple languages.

Here are highlights of his achievements:
Juris Doctor in Law (Jurisprudence).
NRHA & NRCHA Professional.
Judge & Clinician International Liberty Horse Association, KY.
Judge at New England Liberty Horse Association, CT.
Judge at No Stirrups November (online).
Judge at EPRHA Pro-Am NRHA Reining championship, NJ.
Judge at Equine Affaire ILHA Invitational Freestyle, OH & MA.
Multiple freestyle & reining champion at AQHA Congress.
Triple Crown Champion at USEF national championship (USA Reining).
Champion at USDF & FEI dressage competitions.
Finalist at NRHA Futurity Invitational Freestyle ,OKC. OK.
Finalist at the Run for Million Invitational Freestyle, Las Vegas, NV.
Finalist at NRHA Derby Invitational Freestyle, Tulsa, OK.!

Fred is an Equestrian Performance Advisor and stunt rider for films. In his native country of Burma, he was a champion of ancient combat mounted technique, riot control, show jumping & mounted parade competitions at the National Sport Festival.

When he was in college, the head of Burmese government awarded him with the nation’s highest honorary athlete award at the Royal Equestrian Festival and hired him as a professional equestrian of the government’s ministry. Fred studied European Union Law in Madrid, Spain and in Vienna Austria. It was there that he learned the art of Doma Vaquera to the highest classical dressage movement “capriole” meaning “airs above the ground”.

When he is not competing or coaching, he plays polo and trains horses for advanced liberty and classical ground movements such as piaffe, levade, courbette, capriole, pirouette. His ability to connect with horses is unique, unlimited and second to none.

Ezra Yoder
No Reins Performance Horses
Theatre Equus Performer

– Fri, Sat, 8:30PM, Large Arena (2nd Floor, End of Hallway)
Theatre Equus, A Musical Equine Review (Separate Ticket Required)

Biography

Ezra Yoder (Mounted Shooting) – grew up as a humbled Amish boy that worked each and every day on the farm where his family milked cows and worked their draft horses in the hay fields. It was not an easy lifestyle but he is grateful for all it taught him. Hard work seems to be forgotten by some these days and with all he learned on the farm, it molded him into who he is today.

Ezra has always had an interest in horses, but didn’t know how it would work out for him as his life career. At the age of 19, he was excited to be hired on at a local horse training barn and there his love for training began. Ezra was blessed by this trainer giving him a horse to ride and it was there that he knew that he had a gift to be used to help horses become the best version of themselves. He began to see so many horses come in that people were just wanting to “give up” on and Ezra knew there was a better way for them. He started buying untrained horses and found a desire to start them in a way that didn’t involve force. One mentor Ezra looked to was Chris Cox. He had a special way with his touch that inspired Ezra to be gentle and patient. He would then keep these horses a few years and rehome them to their forever home.

Ezra was always fascinated by the old westerns where the cowboys were riding off to the sunset and shooting their guns! It was no coincidence that he started boarding his horses at a barn that happened to do mounted shooting and he was hooked. When Blue Bell came into Ezra’s life, she was an untouched mare that he gentled and started. She he quickly became his best friend! Ezra won his first mounted shooting buckle on her and has never taken for granted that their partnership was meant to be!

One day Ezra just decided to take the bridle off Blue Bell and see how she would run a pattern without it and to his amazement, she was incredible. Ezra began to get noticed and out of no where he began receiving calls to perform mounted shooting bridleless at rodeos and other events and so the brand No Reins Performance Horses was born.

Ezra has started and trained several horses from the start to finish and enjoys it immensely. Going forward, Ezra’s mission is to continue to be a trainer for any horse that someone wants help. His passion truly lies in helping horses and their humans have a better understanding of each other and helping people to not give up on their horses!  Ezra competes and does performances around the country in Mounted Shooting bridleless.

Danielle Yusko 
Diamond Appaloosa Ranch booth S8

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Danielle Yusko (Riding In Connection, Responsible Breeding) – is the owner/ operator of Diamond Appaloosa Ranch started in 2010 and located in eastern Pennsylvania. Danielle’s love for the appaloosa started as a little girl and now has grown into a specialized appaloosa breeding program with her national winning stallion GW Cheveyo Ohanzee.  Danielle has been an avid rescuer, trainer, breeder, show coordinator, and instructor following Natural Horsemanship and Centered Riding techniques for her program.

John Zanella 
Penn State Univ. booth 623, 624

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

John Zanella (Veteran Services) – is the founder and director of Victory Therapeutic Horsemanship. John is a retired Army Sergeant First Class with multiple combat tours and a long history of horse experience. He brings his unique background and his training as a PATH International instructor to provide an unparalleled perspective on how equine therapy treats veterans.

Victory Therapeutic Horsemanship is one of the few therapeutic riding programs serving veterans exclusively. It’s a non-profit organization that provides veterans from all branches and generations of the military with much-needed equine therapy at no cost. Studies have shown repeatedly that therapeutic riding has a massive positive effect on veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), and coping with physical injuries. Through working with horses Victory Therapeutic Horsemanship aims to empower service members and offer a gratifying outlet in which to work through their ailments.  As a veteran, John understands the distinct needs of those who have served in the military. Combined with his horse experience, he is able to offer strong programs to help those who have served our nation.

Jay Ziegler
PA Equine Council booth 212-214, 235-237

– Times to be announced
Schedule to be posted in late January

Biography

Jay Ziegler (Horse Trails) – served 7 years, with the past 4, as President of Rothrock Trail Alliance, leading a pilot program with DCNR to build 53 miles of natural surface shared use trails in Rothrock State Forest. He is Chairman of Pennsylvania Equine Council Trail Stewardship program, which educates volunteers to maintain and create sustainable trails with various land holders in PA. Jay has and continues to volunteer for numerous trail projects in PA while serving as Director on the Pennsylvania Equine Council.