When Natasha was nine years old she was trail riding with her family on a mountainside in Wyoming. Who would have thought that her first jump, which was over a log blocking the trail,  would have proved to be a defining moment for her? That unexpected jump led Natasha to a life filled with, and dedicated to horses. 

 

Natasha grew up catch-riding on the West Coast and was known as the girl who could ride tough horses. She attributes her seat, feel, and horsemanship skills to her first horse, Azagal, an OTTB that she rescued when she was 12 years old. For the next 8 years, the duo trained together and successfully competed in the Ch/Ad jumper ring. Trial and error, reading books and professional articles, taking full responsibility for the care and management of her horses – as well as spending every minute she could either at her farm or watching, listening, and helping her trainer – gave her an undeniable skill set at a young age. Through high-school and into early adulthood, Natasha also owned and showed two equitation horses which helped refine her skills.

 

Although Natasha knew that she ultimately wanted to work in the industry, pursuing a higher education was important to her. She attended Centenary University where she graduated magna cum laude with a BS in Equine Studies, concentrating in Training the Horse and Equine Business Management. Upon graduation, Natasha continued her educational pursuit, taking the position of Centenary University Equine Department Administrator and Adjunct Professor while completing her MA in Leadership and Public Administration. During this time, Natasha was voted “Adjunct Professor of the Year” and completed a thesis on Sports Psychology in the Equine Industry. She went on to work for several high-level H/J barns including Elevenstar in California and Stonehenge Stables in New Jersey as an assistant trainer and manager.

 

Since 2019, Natasha has been employed by Horseflight and transitioned back to her amateur status with USEF. She works as the accounts manager, responsible for bookkeeping, client relations, marketing, sponsorships, accounts receivable and occasionally steps into airport and in-flight groom work. Natasha’s remote occupation allows her to embrace her passion for riding by providing her the opportunity to stay on the road with Redfield Farm based out of Ocala, FL and Califon, NJ catch-riding and showing whatever is available in the AA hunters, adult equitation medals, and Jr/Am jumpers.

Natasha's relationship with Jesus began in her late teen years. Baptized in 2008, Natasha has been walking with the Lord for most of her adult life. She studies the word daily, tunes into online services held at the church her family attends in CA, and seeks to follow His direction in life, business, riding, and relationships. Natasha is part of a Christian women’s leadership group where she is encouraged to expand her capacity and grow in her leadership and business skills, while staying Christ-centered. Natasha loves people and has a strong desire to help others understand that they are loved. She believes that God has a plan for everyone and has placed them here for a purpose.