Testimonials

 One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching young riders is encountering a student who exhibits a strong work ethic, a willingness and ability to learn, and a desire to excel.  Anna Swackhammer has all of these qualities.  Her willingness to learn has allowed her to advance from training level to NAYC, bringing home a team bronze medal in her first season.

Anna’s positive attitude, strong determination in all aspects of training and showing is a testament to her striving for excellence and success.  Anna is cheerful and friendly and it’s a delight to be her coach.

"Anna is one of the youngest Ontario 'GRIT' athletes, and joined the program in its inaugural year. She is keen, eager, and willing to work hard! I wish her well in all her future equestrian endeavours! Keep it up, Anna!!!"

The Canadian equestrian world is lucky to have a developing athlete like Anna.  As we ride at the same barn, I have known Anna for the last six years.  I have had the pleasure of watching Anna grow from a determined, hard working child, riding her beloved pony Piper, into a confident, gifted Junior Rider on her special boy Wrazzmatazz.  Her dedication to riding is evident and she has a work ethic second to none. I have watched Anna ride through  hours of training and in competition in Ontario and New York.  Anna always focuses, listens, watches, and learns.  I was lucky enough to see Anna represent Ontario at the North American Youth Championship in New York in 2018 and 2019.  In 2018, at the age of only 14, as a member of the Junior Rider Team, Anna rode with the team to a bronze medal.  She was one of the youngest riders at the competition. 

Perhaps more importantly, over the years I have come to know Anna as a person.  Her work ethic, her intelligence, her warmth and positive attitude make Anna one of the finest young people that I have ever met.  While training at her high level, Anna also works at the barn; she continues to be an A student; she participates in other sports; and she has fine friends.  Barn work is not easy, but one never sees Anna sitting around at the barn; she works. 

Anna is the 'full package'.  It is to her credit that she is one of only two dressage riders named to the GRIT (Great Rider Intensive Training) Team.  Anna recently received a much-deserved sponsorship from a fine Canadian company, Paramount Saddlery.  I am grateful for that I will have the opportunity to watch Anna reach for the stars.