Training at Cornerstone Farm is overseen by Greta Cummings and Sheri Dill-Billings, both in working with the horses and supervising apprentice trainers. The approach taken in the training program is set on the horse’s timeline. Our goal is to end with a broke horse who is a willing partner no matter what the job at hand is for them to do. Some horses take longer than others and rather than pressure a horse into doing something they are not physically or mentally ready to do, we work step by step to lay a good foundation so a horse can build with confidence.

 

               The relationship with horse and rider is the second most important aspect of a willing and broke horse. We strongly encourage the riders, whether it is the owner with the horse in training, a student working to reach a riding goal or a perspective buyer, to be involved in the training of the horses as much as possible. This means owners are encouraged to take lessons on a weekly basis or more often if possible. Students are encouraged to come and work with their school horse as much as possible, even outside of lesson times. Buyers are welcome to come and spend some dedicated time working with the horse and are encouraged to ride with us on multiple occasions.

 

               “If there is trust and confidence and an understanding of the job to do, riding becomes a pleasure for both parties, no matter what the discipline.”

                                      –Melanie Smith-Breidt, mentor to Greta Cummings