Our Team
Our team of dedicated equestrians and esteemed professionals play a vital role in maintaining both the well-being of our horses and property, as well as upholding our reputation in the community. Here, you can explore the history and background of the individuals who work and reside at the Centre Équestre Riddermark.
Rebecca Matthews; Owner & Proprietor
A Libra who adores indie music, sushi, and the color hot pink
For all intents and purposes, Rebecca had a good childhood. She was raised by a loving father and grandfather and spent most of her early years surrounded by horses. Still, even with everything she had, there was always a quiet ache, a sense that something was missing. When she was five, she asked her father why she didn’t have a mother like the other kids. He dodged the question for years, but when she pressed him again at twelve, he finally told her the truth: her mother had walked away, wanting nothing to do with her father, their marriage, or their child.
Knowing that hurt more than she'd expected—it didn’t fill the hole, it only made it more real. After turning eighteen, Rebecca hired a private investigator and eventually tracked her mother down in Bridgeport, New York. Fueled by a fragile mix of hope and fear, she flew out to meet her. Her mother refused to acknowledge her—denied even knowing who she was—and slammed the door in her face. Heartbroken, Rebecca missed her flight home to Ireland and decided to stay in the states, convinced it was a sign she wasn’t meant to return just yet. While living in Florida, she fell for a man who seemed to offer stability and understanding, only to later discover he was married—to her childhood best friend, Paige.
The fallout was devastating. But rather than let it break her, Rebecca used the pain as a turning point. She returned to the one constant that had always brought her peace: horses. From that place of healing, she began rebuilding her life—brick by brick—and eventually founded Centre Équestre Riddermark, a place rooted in second chances, growth, and belonging. For Rebecca, the stables aren't just a business—they're a home for people, and horses, who need a fresh start, just like she once did.
Paige Price-Forbes; Yard Manager
A Leo that enjoys electronica, hot dogs, and the color yellow
Paige’s comprehensive background in all aspects of equestrian care and management makes her an indispensable part of the team. She oversees everything from the buying and selling of horses to managing the day-to-day needs of the yard and keeping the competition calendar running like clockwork. Her early career was defined by constant movement—she made it a point to work at as many different stables as possible, eager to absorb knowledge from every environment.
It was during this time that she met her future husband, Keith Forbes. Their shared ambition made them a strong team at first, both on and off the competition circuit. However, time and pressure revealed cracks beneath the surface. With a growing business demanding more than it gave back, Paige was blindsided by Keith’s repeated infidelities—including one with her childhood best friend, Rebecca. The marriage ended in divorce. Pregnant with her second child, Paige made the brave decision to move to France to start over. Once the dust settled and emotions cooled, Keith offered her an amicable co-parenting arrangement—one that brought about a tentative friendship between them, built on the shared love for their children and a mutual respect for their work.
Her time in France proved pivotal, not only in her healing, but in forging a deep partnership with Rebecca once again. It was there, through long conversations and a shared vision for the future, that the two decided to relocate the horses and operation across the channel and begin a bold new chapter together—in a country where they could build something lasting, not just for themselves, but for their children and the riders they inspire every day.
Marcie Lewis; Breeding Manager
A Taurus who likes pop music, firecracker shrimp, and the color pink
Marcie is the kind of woman you'd call a passionate, tender-hearted romantic. With a hopeful spirit and a few impulsive quirks, she’s often lost in the pages of romance novels that fill her head with dreamy — and sometimes unrealistic — ideas about the perfect relationship. She’s always imagining the day she’ll finally meet her Prince Charming, convinced that true love is just around the corner if she waits patiently enough. Her imagination is vivid, often leading her to romanticize even the smallest gestures, like a smile from a stranger or a kind word from a coworker. But with all of her responsibilities, finding time for romance is no easy feat. Her days are packed with work, and like any dedicated professional, she rarely has a free moment to think about dating. Still, she tries to stay open to the possibility, even if it’s just daydreaming between meetings or during a quiet moment on the farm.
Marcie's love for animals began at a young age. Encouraged by her mother to follow her heart, her passion only grew stronger. Living next door to a horse farm didn't hurt either — the kind elderly couple who owned it let her feed, groom, and care for their horses in exchange for riding lessons. This experience cemented her love for animals and taught her the value of patience, responsibility, and hard work — lessons that continue to shape her today.
Today, Marcie is living her dream — something not everyone gets to say. The only thing missing? That special someone to share it all with. She often tells herself that her Prince Charming will show up one day… hopefully before she has to explain the lingering scent of dogs and horses on her clothes. Until then, she’s keeping her heart open and her boots muddy — just the way she likes it.
Dante Rinaldi; Head Trainer
A Scorpio that enjoys electronica, tri-tip steak, and most shades of blue
Born and raised in the quiet countryside of Monte Vista, Italy, Dante's upbringing was grounded in hard work, family values, and a deep respect for animals. From a young age, he demonstrated both academic excellence and athletic talent. He maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA throughout school while juggling sports and a part-time job at the local stable. What began as stall-mucking and tack cleaning quickly evolved into hands-on riding and training—and it became clear that Dante had a natural connection with horses.
A lifelong athlete, Dante gravitated toward the intensity and precision of competitive show jumping. His competitive spirit and unwavering focus made him a standout in the ring, even as a teenager. Yet, as he matured and enrolled at Kent University, he realized his ambitions extended beyond competition. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Equine Business Management, Dante shifted his focus toward the broader scope of the equestrian industry—one where he could influence not only performance outcomes but also the well-being of horses, riders, and staff. He believes that great leadership in the equestrian world comes from understanding both sides of the reins: the demands of the sport and the needs of the animal.
His business education, paired with years of practical experience, gives him a unique edge. He is known for his calm, confident demeanor, clear communication, and hands-on approach. Whether he's coaching a rider or overseeing the development of young horses, Dante brings purpose and precision to every task. His commitment to excellence and holistic horsemanship makes him an essential part of the team at Centre Équestre Riddermark—where his vision continues to shape the next generation of top-tier show jumpers.
Abigail "Abbie" Whitmoore; Assistant Trainer
A Pisces who craves classical music, grilled salmon, and the color pink
Abbie grew up on the outskirts of a quiet rural town in Kentucky and from a young age, the stable was her second home; before and after school, she could be found mucking stalls, cleaning tack, and mixing feeds. This taught her the value of hard work, responsibility, and resilience. Life took a dramatic turn the summer before she was set to leave for college as a violent storm swept through the county, and a bolt struck the barn. The fire spread rapidly, engulfing the structure before emergency services could reach the property. As chaos unfolded, Abbie realized that her favorite horse was still trapped inside. Without hesitation, she ran into the blaze in a desperate attempt to save him.
Though her courage was unmatched, the fire claimed the lives of several horses—including the gelding she fought to rescue—and destroyed most of the facility. Abbie herself sustained multiple injuries and was left with a lasting scar on her face. Nearly a year later, having recovered physically and emotionally, Abbie made the difficult but hopeful decision to leave home and pursue a future in the equestrian world abroad. After a rigorous selection process that included three interviews and weeks of preparation, she boarded a plane to Paris, France.
Today, Abbie serves as an assistant trainer at Centre Équestre Riddermark, working under the guidance of world-renowned head trainer Dante Rinaldi. Her past has given her a deep well of empathy, strength, and quiet determination—qualities that make her an exceptional horsewoman. With every lesson taught and every horse handled, Abbie continues to honor her roots, carrying the spirit of her family farm into her work at Riddermark.
René Moreau; Riding Instructor & Lead Rider
A Leo who headbangs along to rock music, autumn salad, and all things black
Now in his late 30s, René serves as both Riding Instructor and Lead Rider at Centre Équestre Riddermark. Known for his understated brilliance in the saddle and calm authority on the ground, René is the kind of horseman who speaks softly and rides with near-silent precision. To students and competitors alike, he is a figure of quiet respect—measured, skilled, and deeply attuned to both horse and rider.
For over a decade, René was a fixture on the European show jumping circuit, competing with his long-time partner, Kingston’s Pride, a sensitive Thoroughbred gelding whose elegance matched René’s own. The pair developed a reputation for fluid rounds and effortless synergy, earning them numerous accolades and the admiration of judges, peers, and spectators. But when Kingston was retired, the transition hit René harder than expected. The rhythm of competition had defined his life; without it—and without his partner—he felt unanchored. His return to purpose came through Dante Rinaldi, REC's sharp-eyed head trainer. Having followed René’s career with quiet interest, Dante urged Rebecca to offer René a role—a rare dual opportunity to teach the next generation and continue competing at the highest level.
Meanwhile, René’s competitive fire has not gone out as he now rides Pilgrim des Monts d'Arrée, a tempestuous but gifted Selle Français stallion with an infamous streak of unpredictability. Many had written Pilgrim off as too temperamental for top sport—but René saw past the defiance to the brilliance beneath. With patient, consistent work, he has forged a bond with the stallion that’s becoming stronger by the week. Early competition rounds have shown flashes of greatness, and there’s growing belief that the pair could become one of the most formidable partnerships on the European circuit.
Alessandro Sacs, D.V.M.; Veterinarian
A Virgo who enjoys classical music, peanut butter & jelly, and spice brown
Dr. Sacs began his journey in the rolling hills of Tuscany, where the scent of hay, the sound of hooves on old cobblestones, and the hum of summer insects shaped his earliest memories. Born and raised in Monte Vista, a quiet agricultural village nestled in the heart of the Italian countryside, Alessandro grew up surrounded by animals, vineyards, and the enduring rhythm of rural life.
While studying veterinary medicine at the University of Naples Federico II, Alessandro gravitated naturally toward large animal care, and secured a coveted internship at Castel Fiorentino, one of Italy’s most respected large-animal clinics. There, he learned not only the technical precision of equine medicine but the importance of calm presence, clear communication, and treating each animal with patient dignity. His professors quickly recognized his natural touch and deep empathy—qualities that would become his hallmark as a practitioner.
Graduating with honors, Alessandro set his sights beyond Italy, and eventually he came to France, where the rich equestrian culture and refined breeding programs offered the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Now a full-time veterinarian for Centre Équestre Riddermark, Dr. Sacs is not just a staff member, but a vital presence within the Centre’s heartbeat. His expertise in equine health, diagnostics, and preventative care is deeply respected among riders, grooms, and trainers alike
Grant Olsen, D.V.M.; Chiropractor
A Virgo who rocks out to electronica, love cheesesteak, and the color white
After his mother died, Grant's father got a new job in London, England. Grant hated the city and, when he turned 18, he moved back to Scotland to attend St. Andrews University, majoring in Veterinary Chiropractics. When he graduated, Grant decided to stay and find a job at one of the local farms. When he wasn't able to find a job doing equine chiropractics, Grant had to settle for a job at the local show jumping arena as a maintenance man.
During his breaks, he would always watch the horses train and offer advice to the owners about their horses’ health. Most ignored him at first—until they realized he actually knew what he was talking about. It was during the Perth Classic that one of the horses started acting up. The rider, Tyler Sparks, couldn't figure out what was wrong with his mount and ended up scratching. Grant offered to look the horse over and, after proving that he had the credentials to do so, Tyler let him. Grant was able to discern what the problem was, and Tyler was so impressed that he called his boss, Rebecca, to tell her all about it. She insisted on talking to Grant herself, and after 30 minutes on the phone, Grant turned to Tyler and said, "She's one crazy lady. She just gave me a job without meeting me!" he has been employed by the Centre Équestre Riddermark ever since.
Though originally hired on trial, it didn’t take long for the team to realize his instincts were razor-sharp. Dr. Olsen now works alongside the veterinary team and training staff, specializing in spinal alignment, joint mobility, and post-competition recovery. Riders often say that after one session with him, their horses move like silk again. What started as a side door into the equestrian world has become a full-fledged career—and Grant takes pride in knowing he earned every step of it.
Jane Grey; Equine Masseuse
An Aquarius who likes dark waves music, sushi, and the spiceberry
Jane was born in Boston into a well-to-do family, where her father’s success provided her with opportunities many could only dream of. From a young age, Jane was surrounded by the privileges that came with her family's status, including being sent off to a prestigious private boarding school. It was there, amid the rolling fields and neighboring estates, that she was first introduced to the equestrian world—not as a rider, but as a spectator to the lives of horse owners around her. At eleven, Jane finally took her first riding lesson, and it was love at first canter. Recognizing her budding talent and passion, her parents gifted her first horse for her thirteenth birthday, setting Jane firmly on a path toward competitive success.
Over the following years, Jane steadily climbed the leaderboards in regional and state dressage competitions, earning respect for her fluid technique and unwavering dedication. During her time at Sim State University in California, where she majored in Equine Science, Jane rode competitively for local stables to support herself. Unfortunately, a severe back injury during a training accident forced Jane to retire from riding. Determined not to let her passion fade, she returned to school and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Equine Massage Therapy from Riverview State University in Pennsylvania. Her understanding of equine anatomy and her intuitive approach to therapy made her highly sought-after in the field.
Outside of work, Jane is a devoted mother to her daughter, Ivy, who has recently begun training in show jumping—carrying on the family’s equestrian legacy in her own way. Jane’s combination of elite competitive experience, therapeutic skill, and personal warmth has made her both a respected professional and a beloved member of the Riddermark community.
Link Harris; Farrier
A Pisces who likes indie music, cookies, and the green
Every successful stable knows that the number one priority is the welfare of its horses. At Centre Équestre Riddermark, we take that commitment seriously—ensuring our horses receive only the highest standard of care. That’s why we’re proud to have Link Harris as our full-time resident farrier. Certified with the Farrier Registration Council, Link has been with REC for the past eight years and remains a cornerstone of our horse care team. Before joining us, Link spent four years working at a competitive training yard, where his reputation for precision and patience quickly spread through the sport horse community. When word got out that he was looking for a change of scenery, we didn’t hesitate. His arrival was a quiet but significant upgrade to our equine management program.
Link’s calm demeanor and deep understanding of equine physiology make him a favorite among our horses—many of whom nicker the moment they hear his voice. Link approaches every horse with the same level of care, focus, and adaptability. His keen eye for subtle shifts in gait and hoof condition helps catch problems before they escalate, making him an invaluable asset to our veterinary and training teams alike.
He currently lives in Champs Les Sims, with his wife Evelyn and their three sons: Hank, Link Jr., and Marco. Their home is as lively as it is loving—shared with three horses, a loyal dog, two cats, and a parakeet named Sir Tumbles who, according to Link, is the most vocal member of the household. Despite his critical role at REC, Link never takes himself too seriously. His dry wit and easygoing personality bring just as much value to the team as his technical expertise.
Leanne Forbes; Competition Rider
A Libra who dances to Latin music, veggie brugers, and all things seafoam
Leanne Forbes, daughter of the late Keith Forbes and Paige Price-Forbes, was raised in the heart of the equestrian world. From a young age, she worked alongside her father at Forbes Stud Farm, helping manage the breeding program while also competing with her own small but promising string of jumpers. Though her childhood was split between France and Ireland, horses remained the steady thread running through every chapter.
Following her parents’ separation and eventual divorce, Leanne eventually moved with her mother to France, where her mother accepted a leadership role at Centre Équestre Riddermark. There, Leanne found her footing again—channeling her deep-rooted love of horses into the centre’s breeding program under the mentorship of Marcie, the breeding manager. Her eye for potential pairings and her hands-on dedication quickly made her an essential part of the team.
She continues to compete actively in the show jumping circuit, often alongside her younger brother, George, whose bold riding style contrasts her own more calculated approach. While competition sometimes sparks sibling rivalry, it’s also strengthened their bond and mutual respect. Leanne is especially proud to be a steady influence in her half-sister Lily’s life, hoping to pass on the same passion for horses that shaped her own.
Since Keith’s passing in 2021, Leanne, George, and Lily have carried the Forbes name forward with quiet strength—determined to honor his legacy not just by reputation, but by building a future of her own, one shaped by hard work, integrity, and an unshakable love for the sport.
Lilian Forbes; Competition Rider
A Gemini who chills out with R&B, vegi rolls, and the color purple
To say that Lily has a lot to live up to would be an understatement. As the youngest and illegitimate daughter of the late show jumping legend Keith Forbes, there’s a weight on her shoulders that no child should be asked to bear. Her older half-siblings, Leanne and George, not only had the privilege of knowing their father personally, but also training under him—experiencing the kind of guidance, praise, and affection Lily has always yearned for. For her, the reality was quite different: a few birthday cards here and there, an occasional signed letter at Christmas, but never the presence, never the time. In fact, she can count on one hand how many times she actually saw her father in person.
Now that Keith is gone, the door to any kind of relationship with him is closed forever, leaving Lily grappling with unresolved feelings of abandonment, envy, and grief. It’s complicated by the fact that her mother, Rebecca, is best friends with Paige—Leanne’s mother—and that the circumstances of Lily’s birth caused fractures no one ever truly recovered from. While Leanne remains cordial and close by at Centre Équestre Riddermark, there's a distance Lily feels but can’t quite name. George, absorbed in his competitive riding career, feels even farther away—more like a myth than a brother.
Lily helps out at the yard, doing what’s expected—grooming horses, mucking stalls—while trying not to flinch when people speak fondly of her father. Horses, for her, are both a comfort and a reminder of everything she missed. Thankfully, she’s found a true friend in Ivy, who knows what it’s like to grow up with an absent father. Their bond has become Lily’s anchor—an honest, steady friendship built on empathy and quiet understanding. Thanks to Ivy, Lily is also starting to enjoy riding a bit.
Brandon Middleton; Competition Rider
A Gemini who likes hiphop, spaghetti, and the color red
Not the kind of person who you'd expect to end up on the back of a horse—ever, Brandon indulged in fast cars, parties, and drinking at an early age. His parents didn't seem to care as long as he made good grades and stayed out of trouble. This would soon catch up with him as the loose structure of his youth didn't help while he was at university because amidst floundering grades and parties every night, Brandon ended up getting pulled over one night and was charged with a DUI. He was allocated one hundred and fifty hours of community service because of his parents being lawers.
Rebecca often likes to offer work-study and community service opportunities to at-risk youth and as such, Brandon was sent to the REC after his DUI. He started by mucking out stalls and doing minor repairs around the yard. He hated it—the smell, the early mornings, the lack of Wi-Fi—but something about the quiet rhythm of the work began to chip away at him. It wasn't long before Galaxie, one of the older school horses, took an interest in him, following him around and nudging him like they were old friends. That simple connection flipped a switch in Brandon, and he found himself returning to the stables even on days he wasn’t scheduled to work.
The trainers noticed, and eventually gave him a leg up—literally. To everyone's surprise, Brandon turned out to be a natural in the saddle, especially over fences. What began as a punishment slowly became a passion, and over time, Brandon not only completed his service hours, but continued on as a student rider, eventually earning a place in the Centre’s competitive training program. Horses gave him structure, responsibility, and something he never expected: a sense of belonging.
Charlotte "Charlie" North; Competition Rider
A Virgo who dances to country, craves cheesesteak, and enjoys the color lilac
Charlotte began riding at the age of ten when her parents bought her a pony to appease her while they were away—which they were, a lot. She spent a lot of time with Butterscotch, between her home-schooling and piano lessons. A sheltered and spoiled child, she didn't spend much time around people other than her tutors and the hired help—but even they wanted very little to do with her and only tolerated her presence because they were paid to.
Due to this, she learned how to use sarcasm and words early on to defend herself and honed those skills into brutal, sometimes mean, honesty. Sharp-tongued and unapologetic, Charlotte often made an impression that lingered longer than she intended. She was lonely, though she would have never admitted it—and never knew quite how to ask for company without sounding cruel. Thee owner of Centre Équestre Riddermark met Charlotte at a show jumping competition and witnessed Charlotte giving one of her staff an earful for stepping on her pristine boots. Rebecca could tell that Charlotte’s snarkiness wasn't who she really was, but that it was a defense to keep her heart safe.
Wanting to break down the wall, Rebecca offered Charlotte a safe place to learn and grow, and she jumped at the opportunity to be around top-quality horses—and thus a relationship arose. Now, she’s learning that not all people are as distant and cold as her parents, something she might not have learned if she had never met Rebecca or started competing for REC. The horses were the first to earn her trust, but the people—slowly—are beginning to as well. She still has her edge, but her sharpness has softened into wit, and she's beginning to discover strength in vulnerability.
Li Ming; Competition Rider
A Scorpio who enjoys classical music, sushi, and the color of spiceberry
Although very forward-thinking, education was everything to her parents, and they tended to push Li hard—leaving little room in her life for anything other than school. To keep them happy, she kept her grades high enough to be accepted to university at only 17 years old. Her parents paid her tuition in full but under the strict stipulation that she live at home with them.
In her first year at university, she began taking riding lessons at Centre Équestre Riddermark, and a new passion emerged. Unhappy with the new hobby, her parents worried about her safety and how it would effect her academic performance. Li continued to work hard and kept her grades high for the next two years, even as she spent more and more time at the stables. Although she loved her parents, she slowly realized that the more she tried to please them, the less she recognized herself. Riding made her feel alive in a way textbooks never could. With newfound courage, she told her parents she was moving out. They gave her the ultimatum to either stay or they would no longer pay for school. Knowing this, she had already made preparations to extend her final year of school while working at the same time for Rebecca at REC. With her amazing drive to excel—Li proved to everyone at Riddermark that she was an excellent risk to take a chance on.
Now, Li wakes up before sunrise, balancing university assignments with early morning training sessions and late-night shifts at the barn. She's traded comfort for freedom, and though the path is harder, it finally feels like it's hers. With all the gratefulness she feels in her heart and a fire to build a life on her own terms, Li Ming plans to prove just how much by winning competitions—and becoming a name to remember.
Tyler Sparks; Competition Rider
A Capricorn who loves country music, hamburgers, and the color green
Although a few years younger than his fellow competitors—Tyler is, for all intents and purposes, the complete opposite in every sense of the word. Sullen and mysterious about his childhood, Tyler came to Centre Équestre Riddermark with just a single suitcase of clothes and the promise that he was a good horseman. Something about him was sincere enough for head trainer, Dante Rinaldi, to allow Tyler to take our most headstrong and ornery horse in the yard for a trail ride. We had to test him out somehow, and why not on our most unruly and troublesome chestnut mare?
Thankfully, he was true to his word and was a good rider. He, remarkably, remained in the saddle despite the mare’s best efforts to dislodge him, and at the end of the session, Tyler refused to let a groom unsaddle her for him and insisted on cooling her down himself, all while listening to Dante’s criticism. He spoke little, asked for nothing, and returned the next day before sunrise to muck out stalls without being told. Over time, even the more skeptical staff came to admire his quiet work ethic and the uncanny way horses responded to him. Though he rarely volunteers information, it’s clear that horses have long been Tyler’s safe haven—and maybe the only real family he’s ever known.
Tyler is now one of the stable’s leading show jumping rider, and his favorite mount was the headstrong mare before her passing—but he also rides all our other horses with equal care and precision. He spends extra hours working with the green horses, often opting to train them himself before they’re matched with other riders. Despite his closed-off nature, he has become a respected and steady presence at Riddermark. We look forward to more promising results from this quiet, capable rider. Hopefully, he won’t let us down—and we can see him and the horses winning many competitions for years to come.
Lorelai "Rory" Stevens; Competition Rider
A Virgo who enjoys classical music, ratatouille, and the color lilac
At just 25 years old, Rory has made big strides in her riding career. She fell in love with horses at a young age and begged her parents for riding lessons—they finally caved on her eighth birthday. She rode every week without fail, refusing to be put off by heavy rain or sickness. She lived for riding. While in high school, she began working at the local stables, and in return she got extra lessons and began to really take an interest in show jumping.
When she was sixteen, she was offered a horse for the summer—a beautiful black Arabian gelding. She rode him every day and entered him in every show possible, even missing her family's yearly summer holiday for one. But she worked hard, and his owners were happy when, at the end of the summer agreement, he had won four of the shows. She began to ride in shows with some of the stable's better horses, and when she left school, she was contacted by Dante Rinaldi, the head trainer at REC.
Rory moved to France shortly after and quickly proved herself as not just talented, but deeply intuitive—able to connect with even the most complicated horses in the yard. She’s known for her tireless work ethic and almost meditative focus during training, which has made her a favorite among both staff and the horses she works with. Though young, she has the poise and presence of someone far more experienced in the sport. Rory continues to live and dream horses, and is making remarkable progress with one of the stable’s prized mounts, Izmir S, a spirited Swedish Warmblood stallion of exceptional bloodlines. Their partnership is one to watch—electric, ambitious, and still unfolding. Those who know Rory say that with her passion, she’s not just chasing greatness—she’s galloping toward it.
Ashton Jones; Competition Rider
A Cancer who enjoys pop music, cheeseburgers, and the color blue
Ashton came into the equestrian world a little later than most, not riding her first horse until the age of 23—a fact her younger peers at Centre Équestre Riddermark love to tease her about. Though the jokes are often lighthearted, they’ve fueled some of her insecurities, especially in such a competitive and elite environment. Still, judges, veteran riders, and even Rebecca and Paige have reminded her time and time again: she’s not only capable—she’s talented. With their encouragement, she continues to push past her nerves, one stride at a time.
She prefers to train solo, loving the quiet rhythm and deep focus that comes with just her and her horse in the ring. That solitude offers her a kind of therapy, especially compared to the spike of anxiety she feels under pressure or in front of a crowd. Competitions still rattle her, but Ashton is nothing if not determined, and she continues to work at silencing her inner critic. Leanne, her closest friend and greatest supporter at the Centre, has been instrumental in helping Ashton gain confidence, both in and out of the saddle. Their bond is a grounding force—Leanne’s boldness balances Ashton’s quiet nature, and they push each other to grow.
Comfortable in jeans and a hoodie rather than breeches and a show coat, Ashton’s southern roots are impossible to miss—from her laid-back warmth to her thick Georgia drawl. She finds peace in long trail rides along the Champs Les Sims river, rainy day walks through the fields, and evenings spent curled up with a strong coffee and a well-worn Agatha Christie or Stephen King novel. Though she didn’t grow up with horses, they've become her purpose, and with Leanne by her side, Ashton’s slowly proving—to herself and everyone else—that she belongs.
Waverly Tremblay; Competition Rider
An Aquarius who enjoys classic rock, fruit parfait, and all things black
As the eldest of the three cousins, Waverley grew up just under 9 kilometers from Cosette and Lisette in the heart of Provence, France. Their close proximity allowed the three girls to form a tight, sibling-like bond—one filled with fierce loyalty, inside jokes, and the occasional heated rivalry. That rivalry is most evident when Waverley’s insecurities flare up, particularly around the financial gap between her family and the wealthier Durands. Though it never overshadowed their love for one another, it added tension to their dynamic as they grew older and more competitive.
Despite financial limitations, Waverley’s parents always supported her love of horses, encouraging it not only as a passion but as a way for her to stay connected with the twins. She quickly excelled in the local riding circuit—one of the few areas where she consistently outshines both Cosette and Lisette. But Waverley’s ambitions extend far beyond regional competitions; she dreams of going international and representing France in the Olympics one day. Deep down, she’s driven by an unspoken need to prove herself—not just to the twins, but to everyone who ever underestimated her.
Now riding under the banner of Centre Équestre Riddermark, she and her parents believe this marks the beginning of her true competitive career. She has thrown herself into training with relentless focus, determined not to waste the opportunity. Though she occasionally doubts her place beside more seasoned riders, her determination keeps her pushing forward.
When she’s not training, Waverley finds solace in her music, often retreating to the hayloft with her headphones and a playlist full of classic rock and cinematic scores—anything that makes her feel like she’s galloping toward something bigger.
Cosette Durand; Competition Rider
An Aries who enjoys songwriter music, grilled salmon, and irish green
Cosette has always looked up to her older cousin Waverley—admiring everything about her and doing her best to follow in her footsteps. Their closeness in age made that both easier and more complicated, but when Cosette mentioned horse riding as another way to spend time with Waverley, her parents leapt into action. Eager to support her new interest, they purchased the most expensive horse they could find. Unfortunately, knowing little about horses, they ended up buying an unsuitable mount.
The kind, aging grey mare—later named Misty—was sweet but entirely wrong for Cosette’s ambitions. She was too old to jump and struggled with lameness. When the family vet broke the news, her well-meaning but impulsive parents replaced Misty with another horse—one that turned out to be aggressive and temperamental. During a seemingly harmless trail ride, the new horse threw Cosette, resulting in a broken arm. Forced to take a six-month break, Cosette and her twin sister, Lisette, quietly saved up and made a pact to choose a horse together—one that actually suited Cosette's, and now Lisette's, goals.
Known as a social butterfly around the yard, Cosette is friendly, lively, and always the first to greet newcomers. She chats with every horse in the barn each morning—ear scratches and peppermints included for her favorites. Outside of the arena, she’s passionate about Jane Austen novels and active in her after-school drama program. Her dream future is a toss-up between winning Olympic gold in show jumping… or an Oscar. She hasn't quite decided which spotlight suits her best—so she’s chasing both.
Lisette Durand; Competition Rider
An Aries who is serenaded by her native French music, enjoys the comfort of grilled cheese, and lilac
Lisette may be Cosette’s twin, but the two couldn't be more different in how they approach life—and horses. While Cosette thrives on socializing and the spotlight, Lisette is far more reserved, preferring quiet mornings in the stable and long trail rides where it's just her and the horse. She’s observant, thoughtful, and incredibly patient—traits that have made her a natural with even the most sensitive of mounts.
She didn’t originally plan to fall in love with horses, but after seeing her cousin Waverly and sister Cosette’s growing interest, Lisette tagged along out of curiosity. What started as a shared activity soon turned into a personal passion. After Cosette’s accident and forced break from riding, it was Lisette who came up with the idea of pooling their money to buy a horse of their own—one they could truly connect with and care for together. The plan not only brought the sisters closer, but also marked the beginning of Lisette's deeper commitment to the sport.
Though she doesn’t crave attention, Lisette is a quiet powerhouse in the saddle. She has a gift for tuning in to her horse’s emotions and forming strong bonds, which makes her an ideal rider for green or troubled horses. She’s also an excellent student, often balancing her studies with stable work, and she dreams of one day becoming an equine behaviorist or trainer. Outside the arena, Lisette loves sketching horses, reading mystery novels, and baking—though she mostly does that last one to make Cosette smile. Where Cosette brings the energy, Lisette brings the calm—and together, they’re a team that’s as inseparable as they are unstoppable.
Ivy Grey; Competition Rider
A Leo who enjoys songwriter music, egg rolls, and the aqua
For as long as she could remember, Ivy had watched her mother compete in high-level Dressage competitions—until a back injury forced her into early retirement. However, to Ivy, the art of Dressage always seemed beautiful and soothing, like the songwriter music she loved to listen to late at night. Because she grew up surrounded by horses, she took on the challenge of training to be an accomplished rider full stride—and as circumstances would have it, she enjoys show jumping much more than Dressage. Bold and fiercely competitive, Ivy thrives on adrenaline, precision, and the unique bond that must exist between rider and horse in the jumping ring. She’s now become a valued and spirited member of the team.
Since she was seven years old, she’s wanted to compete and become as good as her mother once was—if not better. Between each lesson, Ivy helps out around the barn by cooling off the horses, grooming them, and mucking out stalls. Never content to sit still, she often tags along with the farrier or sneaks extra time with her favorite ponies. Ivy has always been one to "push the envelope," so to speak, and once even asked her mom if she could paint her helmet her favorite color. Naturally, she was denied due to competition regulations—but that hasn’t stopped her from customizing her boot polish or tying a ribbon to her tack bag when she thinks no one’s looking.
At such a young age, Ivy has already shown remarkable progress and composure in the ring. Her instincts in the saddle are sharp, and her energy is infectious, inspiring other young riders in the program. We at the Riddermark have high hopes that Ivy will not only climb the show jumping leaderboards as her mother once did in dressage—but will blaze her own trail, full of grit, grace, and determination.
Meredith Duval; Competition Rider
A Virgo who loves country music, enjoys savory mac & cheese, and all things bright and yellow
Born and raised in the pastoral charm of Champs Les Sims, Meredith grew up where vineyards met meadows and horses were part of everyday life. Her family managed a small countryside stable, and from the moment she could walk, Meredith seemed destined for the saddle. The rhythms of rural life shaped her—quiet mornings in the barn, long rides through winding trails, and a deep respect for the animals she rode beside.
Though she began as a humble stable girl helping her parents, Meredith's natural talent and drive soon led her into the competitive world of show jumping. By her teenage years, she was already turning heads in regional circuits across France, known for her precision, control, and seemingly effortless connection with her mounts. Her approach balanced elegance and technical mastery, making her a formidable presence on the course.
She spent several years on the European circuit, earning accolades for her consistency and poise under pressure. But competition never clouded her original love for horses. While her peers chased fame, Meredith remained focused on partnership—always prioritizing the welfare and spirit of her horses over trophies.
Now riding with REC, Meredith brings a wealth of professional experience, a calm and tactical mind, and a deep-seated respect for the craft. She is a rider who leads not with ego, but with instinct—whether she's clearing fences at full gallop or walking a young horse through its first lessons.