About Me

Damaris Smyth has a Bachelors of Science in Equine Science, with a major in equitation, from the University of Limerick in Ireland and a FETAC Level 5 certificate in equine physiology and anatomy. She has a special interest in equine nutrition and bio-mechanics. 
      She lived in Ireland for almost 12 years where she got her bachelors in equine science and worked with horses. In addition to dressage, racing and showjumping, Damaris also has experience with the breeding side of the equine industry. She spent 8 months in Japan working for Darley, a global thoroughbred breeding facility.
        Continuing education is very important to Damaris. She went to England in January of 2020 for an intense week of dressage training with Sara Gallop, an international Grand Prix dressage rider and trainer. Damaris also continues to take weekly lessons and is currently working on her masters degree in adult education.
   Her professional experience includes: exercising race horses, grooming, facilitating therapeutic riding for the disabled, breaking, riding, training, developing horses and teaching.
       While believing in the importance of classical equitation, Damaris also feels that horses are fun and often has an irreverent or playful approach to teaching a better understanding of the horse. This philosophy is evident in the adventures and activities she coordinates such as trail rides, beach trips, camping weekends and horseback soccer games.