86 SIDELINES JULY 2014
FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE
Kathy’s self-proclaimed favorite horse. “Ria was the best horse I
have ever owned,” Kathy said. “Looks, movement and pedigree.
But we topped out at Second Level due to stifle issues.”
Celtic Knight, aka Renny — a horse Kathy bred out of Ria.
Renny is happy to be a pasture pet now due to a birth defect
discovered when he was 2. Kathy explained that he was a joy
to break and ride. Unfortunately, his body couldn’t keep going in
work and he’s now an oversized lap dog.
Photo by Beth Villery
build my resume. I used to say I don’t need a crystal ball to know
my future. I have Janet and she’ll tell me what to do next!
What is the greatest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
I think it’s one many riders have: finding the right horse. I love
all horses and ride many nontraditional or just difficult ones in the
show ring. To advance in the judging ranks, which is something
I’d love to do, one needs scores. I have yet to find that reliable
mount in the show ring, but I totally enjoy the challenges of trying
to get there!
What would you consider your greatest equestrian
achievement?
My recent appointment to the faculty for the USDF Certified
Instructor Trainer Program! It’s such an honor to be able to go out
and teach other instructors how to be the best they can be.
What is your favorite thing about teaching dressage?
Light bulb moments and accomplishments of my students. The
horses are the teachers. I am just a facilitator. When the student
makes a small adjustment and the horse responds in a big way,
it’s thrilling for all of us!
If you could ride any horse in the world, who would you
choose?
Valegro would be the easy and popular choice right now. I’d
probably be so overwhelmed that I’d freeze up! But honestly, when
I see an older school horse with a child on his back at a schooling
show and that horse doesn’t miss a transition and doesn’t break
in the canter even though the reins are a mile long and the child’s
legs don’t go past the flap of the saddle, that horse is worth just
as much in my eyes.
If you hadn’t become a professional dressage rider/trainer,
what profession do you think you would have pursued?
I graduated with a degree in business and have actually held
some “real” jobs. I couldn’t go back to a cubicle now so maybe I’d
be a vet tech.
What do you do to wind down after a long day at the barn?
I like to relax with my husband, Kevin, our dogs and our cat
watching some TV and reading. A long hot bath or shower is
always welcomed. Maybe a nice glass of wine.
If you could vacation anywhere, where would you go and
why?
Vacation? What’s that? No, I’ve always wanted to go on safari
in Africa. When I was applying for college, I was going to major in
zoology and go to Africa to study lions. Instead, I study and train
horses.
How would you describe yourself in one word?
Loyal
What’s your advice to up-and-coming riders?
Do what you can to pursue your equestrian dreams. When
doors open, have the courage to say yes and walk through. Who
knows what the next door may bring?
For more information about Kathy, visit
.
Photos courtesy of Kathy Simard , unless otherwise noted
