Susie spent the following 6 years with Linda Zang at Idlewilde Farm in Maryland, training her horse, Ovation, to the Grand Prix level.

Currently, Susie has two horses of her own coming along, and several training horses that will be competing from Training Level to FEI.

Susie's approach to teaching and training is guided by the classical principles of dressage. Horses and riders are brought along correctly, at their own pace; short cuts and “quick fixes” are avoided. Susie wants her to students to be able to ride their horses with confidence, and wants the horses to have confidence and trust in their riders. This is achieved by a balanced approach of Susie training the horse the aids and movements and teaching the student to execute the aids and movements correctly.

Susie meets regularly with each of her students to develop both long and short term goals. Full training clients and lesson clients have regular video lessons to track progress. The primary goal at Encore Sporthorse is to learn more about dressage, horsemanship and sportsmanship in a fun, team atmosphere.

Kathryn Williams – Barn manager

Kathryn is a 4th year pre-veterinary student at NC State. She is a “B” level Pony Clubber from New York State and has been with Susie since 2003. She has evented through the preliminary level and is excellent with young horses and jumping.

Laura Symes – Barn manager

Laura is an “H/A” level Pony Clubber (www.ponyclub.org/index.php) from Gardiner, Maine and has been with Susie since 2004. She is currently a 4th year Animal Science student at NC State University. Laura is eventing Missy, her recently purchased 12 year old TB mare.

Elvis, Rusty, Mabel

Susie's dogs are the official Ovation Farm greeters.