Mary brings over 30 years of training experience to Ivy Gate's intermediate and advanced riders. Although she has worked and ridden with many of the country's top professionals, by far the most influential person in Mary's life was her mentor, Victor Hugo-Vidal, with whom she studied and taught for the last 10 years of his life. "Victor always referred to Ivy Gate as his home barn," says Mary. "And even though he is no longer here with us, his love for the horses and boundless enthusiasm is still felt by the many riders who worked with him at Ivy Gate." Mary gained international attention in 2005 when the French Federation (the equivalent of the U.S. Equestrian Organization) hired her to teach hunter-style clinics in France, where they have just recently begun to promote the hunter-style riding disciplines.
Cristin joined Ivy Gate Farm back in 1994 and has been a huge asset to the program ever since. With over 30 years of riding and showing experience, she has a keen ability to know horses quickly, manage each equine personality individually and help horses overcome challenging training and behavioral issues. Growing up in Northern California, Cristin has extensive experience in the Hunter and Jumper rings as well as working and bringing along young horses. After graduating from UC Davis with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Sciences, she spent time abroad in the Caribbean employed by a private entity, where she provided individual instruction as well as managed the care of their equines. She is an asset for her riding expertise, ability to develop each horses unique strengths and make them more rideable and ultimately better able to perform for our clients. Cristin has a keen eye for detail with her training experience, making it easy for her to suggest changes that benefit both horse and rider. Cristin is also a mom to Charlie, Molly and Johnny. We are so blessed to have her here at Ivy Gate!
Gabby grew up riding in Atlanta, Georgia. She began riding as a young child and horses have been a huge part of her life ever since. Gabby has 20 years of riding experience and an extensive show record in all three rings. Gabby brought her junior hunter and 1.15 jumper horses with her to college. While pursuing her bachelors degree in Biology, she rode and showed all throughout college. After graduating, Gabby was offered a training and riding job at a top show barn in Atlanta. It was there that she discovered her immense passion for teaching and sharing her love of the sport with people of all ages. Gabby's top priority is to teach the proper fundamentals not only on the horse, but on the ground. She always provides a safe and pleasant experience for both horse and rider. Gabby joined Ivy Gate Farm in March of 2023 and has been an excellent addition to the team. She recently bought one of Mary Morrisons French imports and has grown immensely as a horse trainer and rider.