Horsepeople of the Year: Kristin McLean

A truly great horseperson develops not only talented riders, but also kind, confident and compassionate young people. That is exactly what Kristin McLean, founder of KGM Equestrian, does every single day.

From the very beginning, she has believed in my daughter, Willow, encouraging her through every success and setback with patience, honesty and unwavering support. She teaches far more than equitation and horsemanship—she instills sportsmanship, responsibility, resilience and respect for every horse. The welfare of the horses is always her highest priority. She never sacrifices a horse’s well-being for a ribbon, teaching her students that happy, healthy horses are the foundation of true success. Her calm demeanor, exceptional knowledge and dedication create an environment where both horses and riders can thrive.

This year, Willow has grown tremendously—not only as a competitor but as a young horsewoman. That growth is a direct reflection of Kristin’s commitment, leadership and ability to bring out the very best in each horse-and-rider partnership. Kristin leads by example, celebrates every student’s accomplishments as if they were her own and has made a lasting impact on countless riders and horses. For her integrity, passion, selflessness and unwavering dedication to our sport, she is more than deserving of the Horsepeople of the Year honor.

-Natasha Ritchie

Kristin has been an incredible trainer for my daughter, going above and beyond to help develop her riding abilities and mental skills with riding. She helps with the community and is always giving.

-Teri Spiegel

Kristin is a great trainer, rider and wonderfully sweet person. She’s great with both horses and people but always puts the horse first. When I go to her beautiful barn, KGM Equestrian, you can see the horses are happy. The level of care she brings to them is amazing!

Also, she put a lot of time and effort into building her equine business; it hasn’t been easy but she never gave up or compromised on horse care or level of attention to detail. She’s the best!

-Emilia Dejager

Whether in the show ring, the training arena or the barn aisle, Kristin exemplifies true horsemanship. Every decision she makes is guided by one simple question: What is best for the horse? She understands that lasting success is built on patience, trust, soundness and thoughtful care, not shortcuts or quick results.

Her horses are developed as individuals, never forced into a timeline they aren’t ready for. She celebrates progress over perfection and believes that confidence, physical well-being and a willing partnership are far more important than any ribbon. When a horse needs time, she gives it. When one needs a different approach, she adapts. The welfare of the horse is never compromised for convenience or competition.

This philosophy extends beyond her own horses. As a trainer and mentor, she instills these same values in every rider who walks through her barn doors. She teaches that kindness, empathy and responsibility are the foundation of good horsemanship. Her students leave not only as better riders, but as better advocates for their horses.

Those who know Kristin recognize her integrity. She is the person who quietly stays late to care for a horse, notices the smallest change before it becomes a bigger problem, celebrates the victories of others and remains steadfast in doing what is right, even when it is the harder path. Her dedication is seen in countless small acts that often go unnoticed but make all the difference in the lives of the horses entrusted to her care.

Horsepeople of the Year should honor someone who represents the very best of our industry, not only through talent and achievement, but through compassion, humility and an unwavering commitment to the horse. Kristin embodies those qualities every single day.

-Lauren Mason

Within a year, Kristin got KGM Equestrian up and running, and it is already one of the most successful equestrian centers in the area. She has had riders place at Upperville, Loudon Benefit and HITS Culpepper. Her barn is already all full. She has top horse care, and she treats her grooms amazingly.

-Christina Lonon