Owner and operator of Rendezvous Ranch, Chris offers lessons and Clinics in both Western and Classical Dressage, Working Equitation and Mountain Trail Obstacles.

Chris is one of the only trainers in Washington State to offer Clinics and Lessons in Working Equitation. Working equitation is an international equestrian sport growing quickly in the United States and consisting of three phases–dressage, ease of handling (a judged course of obstacles), and speed (a timed course of obstacles). Her fun, informative two-day clinics consist of an overview of the sport, course walk, Q&A, guided ease of handling sessions, and a mock competition on the afternoon of the second day if time permits. Horses and riders of all levels and disciplines are welcome to try working equitation in this supportive environment or advance their working equitation skills for the show ring.

Chris was raised in Washington State and experienced her earliest horse memories while on her uncle’s cattle ranch in Ellensburg. At age nine she already owned her first horse and continues to be enchanted by the beauty, power, and sensitivity of the horse. She has been a long time instructor, teaching courses in swift water rescue, boat handling, horsemanship, and horseback riding. She apprenticed with Mark Bolender for 2 years and was his first certified trainer. Chris is a mentor to many students on their pathways to becoming professional instructors and horsemen.

Chris is also an outspoken advocate for equine welfare. Her non-profit organization, The Equis Now Project, provides trimming training and assistance in developing nations. Chris has spent significant amounts of time in Haiti, Ecuador, and Romania learning, educating, and, as always, riding.