Testimonials-


"Katie Straton has the patience of a saint, which for me is critical. I am not a naturally gifted rider and work hard to catch on to the complexities of dressage. Katie is always willing to review concepts with me until they click. Even tempered and positive, Katie teaches with the dual perspective of what is best for both the rider and the horse. Not only is she considerate of me and my strengths and limitations, she is the same toward my horse. The word harmony comes to mind when I think about my training with Katie! I am also continually impressed by Katie's insights about muscle structure both human and equine and which muscle we as riders need to use to effectively and correctly influence our horses."

Mary Sue McCarthy 
Adult Amateur & owner of 12 year old Anglo Arab "Finnegan's Wake"
"Katie is an effective, thoughtful and thorough classical dressage instructor.   She is patient with both horse and rider resulting in superior form and balance.  My son Josh was new to horses and to the sport of dressage, and in a few short months Katie has brought Josh and his horse, Hotrod, along as a super team who are winning ribbons.  Furthermore, Katie's fees are fair and affordable making progression and consistency possible.  Thank you, Katie, for a great summer!"

Janet Collier
"Barn Mom" to Josh and Hotrod

"I have known Katie for about two years now and cannot say enough good things about her.  The first thing I realized about her and really appreciate is that she loves ALL horses.  She could easily have a big ego with all the well known and admired trainers she rides for and with, but Katie is as humble, personable, and down to earth as it gets.  We can all have a bad day, but you would never know it with Katie...she is always in a good mood with a smile on her face and sincerely happy to be riding the horses.  She does not take anything for granted and appreciates all opportunities to ride and teach.  

I have a 5 year old Shire mare and Katie has done a great job training her.  She is a lovely rider with a  wonderful seat and she adjusts her training for each horse.  She has brought my horse along slowly and properly, encouraging her to progress without pushing, which is hard to find in a trainer.  A friend of mine, who is also a trainer, recently got on my horse and commented about what a lovely mouth she had and whomever had been training her was doing a wonderful job!  I am very fortunate to have Katie working with my horse and even more pleased to now call her a friend.  I would highly recommend her to anyone who wants to ride and/or compete in Dressage."
 
Laura Fisher
Owner, Bluemont Farm
"I purchased Grande Reflection, aka Lilly, from Katie in June, 2009.  Katie graciously allowed a 2-week trial period so that my trainers could evaluate her suitability for me. As a late in life and timid rider, I needed a horse that could do the sport I wanted to do and yet be safe. Lilly has turned out to be everything Katie said and more.  My trainers were somewhat skeptical that this powerhouse of a horse was a good match but soon realized she is perfect for me.  

The overall experience was not only positive, but I felt Katie wanted to ensure that Lilly went to the right home as much as I wanted to get the right horse.  As a result of getting the right horse, my riding has improved and my trainers are pleased with my progress.  I highly recommend Katie as someone who both has integrity and cares a great deal about matching the right horse and rider."  

Cheryl Batts  
Raleigh, NC