Head Trainer

Melissa Blades began riding at the age of four and quickly developed a passion for equestrian sports. Her interest in training young horses grew as she started working with young horses off the track, learning how  to bring out their full  potential. Mentored by respected trainers like Sari Clipperton, Bobby Dryer, and Michael Page, Melissa became a top Junior Rider in the Midwest, securing multiple Junior Hunter Championships and qualifying twice for the Junior Medal/Maclay Finals. She also competed at prestigious venues like Harrisburg. In 2011, Melissa graduated from the University of Findlay with a bachelor's in Business Management and Equestrian Studies, representing Findlay three times in the National IHSA competition. She gained further international experience in Germany, riding young jumpers up to 1.50m under the guidance of Helena Stormanns, a seasoned Nations Cup rider. Melissa’s career highlights include top placings at Garden State, Old Salem, Capital Challenge, and the Stal Hendrix Pre-Green Futurity, as well as competing young horses at the Kentucky Pre-Green Finals. As a  professional, Melissa is dedicated to refining her craft, consistently producing high-quality hunters, derby horses, promising young jumpers, and proven Grand Prix contenders.