I returned to riding a couple of years ago, after several non-horse years, and decided to study Dressage. The trainer who was highly recommended to me was Nicole Chastain, at Canada Larga Stables. This wonderful woman's encyclopedic knowledge of all things horses -- from equine anatomy to the most delicate intricacies of Dressage training -- amazed and humbled me. I have ridden off and on for 35 years, but seldom have I met a woman with more knowledge, integrity, experience with different disciplines and uncanny ability to see and encourage the best in both horse and rider. As a trainer, she has superb judgment and intuition about the best approach in each situation.
Although I have not personally trained with Austin, her partner, both of them are very generous with their time and counsel. Their boarding facility is immaculate; the stalls and water buckets are kept spotless and the arenas are manicured. They personally know each horse that is boarded there, and if they work with them at all they can pinpoint their talents and needs with unerring accuracy. Nicole works long hours training horses and riders and yet, at the end of a long day, you'll still find her roaming around the property, feeding or blanketing and checking to make sure each horse is sound and happy.
Canada Larga is in a beautiful and serene setting with fabulous amenities, and the boarders and students are friendly and very supportive of one another. I recommend this boarding and training facility so highly -- Nicole and Austin are truly dedicated to helping you and your horses thrive and excel.
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