Growing up in the world of horses
My journey in the equestrian realm was ignited from the very soil I walked on. Raised on a Dutch Warmblood breeding farm, I was immersed in the world of horses from a tender age. My family's heritage was deeply intertwined with these majestic creatures – a tapestry woven with a mother who embraced the world of eventing, a father who honed the art of farriery, and the legacy of breeding and training racehorses.
a serendipitous beginning
The story took a serendipitous twist when my mother's path crossed with the Zweegers family who were rooted in the sporthorse world, thanks to my grandfather's venture importing farm machinery from The Netherlands. A spark ignited, and the allure of Dutch Warmblood horses captivated my parents' hearts. In the early 80s, armed with determination and dreams, they ventured to Holland. With resolute passion, they brought back two mares, kindling the legacy of breeding that would shape my journey. As fate would have it, my earliest years were marked by the success of our breeding endeavors. Though I was still very young, I witnessed our farm flourish with top-placing mares, foals, and stallions. The groundwork laid during those years would mold my future in ways I could never have foreseen.
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First taste of the netherlands
In 1994, when I was just eleven, the opportunity finally arrived for me to journey to The Netherlands. Accompanying my parents on a horse-buying expedition for a client, I was swept into a world of equestrian wonder. That initial visit was nothing short of magical, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and mind. During this time, I was heavily invested in the world of show jumping with some dressage on the side. It wasn't until a few years later, after meeting a well known dressage coach and former young rider who piqued my interest in the NAYRC, that I dedicated my efforts solely on dressage.
A Journey Shaped by Passion
My story is woven with the threads of dedication and passion for the art of dressage. Over the years, I've had the privilege of learning and collaborating with esteemed figures in the industry. I've been fortunate to work alongside and under the mentorship of luminaries such as Lynda Alicki, Heather Blitz, and Steffen Peters. It's an honor that I still treasure to this day. A special chapter in my journey began during my Young Rider years when I crossed paths with my favorite coach, Conrad Schumacher – a connection that continues to enrich my growth in the world of dressage.
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Proud AchievementsMy journey in dressage is adorned with significant milestones. I had the honor of representing the United States in the Prix St. George Derby at the 2005 CDI*** Sydney, Australia – an experience that broadened my horizons and strengthened my commitment to excellence. My accomplishments also include competing in the NAYRC in 2001 and making the team again in 2003, showcasing my dedication to pushing boundaries and striving for greatness. I've earned USDF Bronze, Silver, and partial Gold medals, along with receiving All-Breeds awards. Notably, my dedication has led to remarkable performances at Regionals, granting me multiple opportunities to shine at the US Dressage Finals.
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cultivating a global network
Over time, my connection with The Netherlands deepened. Guided by a burning passion and relentless determination, I began traveling across the ocean for clients of my own. Despite the challenges, I persevered, assembling a remarkable network of riders, breeders, and agents. Their collective expertise and unerring eye for horses have been pivotal in my quest to source exceptional equine partners.
Embarking on a fresh journey
With a bold stride forward, I've transitioned my business from boarding, teaching, and training to a add a newfound focus on the art of horse development for sales. Having traversed countless buying journeys both independently and with clients, I've come to understand the intricate paths of horse acquisition. I've witnessed the challenges, felt the weight of decisions, and celebrated the victories.
Navigating the realm of equine acquisition is an endeavor that demands careful consideration. It's a landscape where making the right choice can be both a daunting task and a rewarding achievement. Drawing from my experiences of selling numerous horses, both on behalf of others and from my own stables, I'm dedicated to illuminating this path for you.
Navigating the realm of equine acquisition is an endeavor that demands careful consideration. It's a landscape where making the right choice can be both a daunting task and a rewarding achievement. Drawing from my experiences of selling numerous horses, both on behalf of others and from my own stables, I'm dedicated to illuminating this path for you.
Guiding you to the perfect fit
My mission is to act as your trusted compass, a steadfast guide through the labyrinth of horse selection. I'm here to shed light on the nuances, unveil the hidden gems, and help you uncover the equine partner that resonates with your aspirations. Whether you're a seasoned rider seeking your next performance companion or a newcomer embarking on this transformative journey, my expertise is at your service.
Allow me to alleviate the complexity, offer insights, and provide unwavering support as you navigate the process of horse acquisition. With dedication and unwavering passion, I'm committed to making this experience not only manageable but truly enlightening. Together, let's chart a course to your equestrian dreams. Warm regards, Katie Hebert |