OPENING NUMBER RIDING ACADEMY
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OPENING NUMBER RIDING ACADEMY
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS
ABOUT CAITLIN - Head Trainer/ Owner
Caitlin is a second-generation horsewoman and the owner of Opening Number Riding Academy, LLC, a woman-led equestrian program established in 2013. With decades of riding experience and a passion for developing confident, well-rounded riders, Caitlin has built a program known for strong horsemanship, quality instruction, and a supportive learning environment.
Her background spans a wide range of disciplines, including hunter/jumpers, English equitation, dressage, eventing, gymkhana, and driving. Caitlin began riding in 1998 and has been teaching riders of all ages since 2006. Her students have found success in competition, and are consistently recognized for their solid equitation and thoughtful horsemanship both in and out of the ring.
In addition to her equestrian career, Caitlin brings a strong educational foundation to her teaching. She holds an Associate’s degree in General Studies with a focus in Music, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and a Master’s degree with certification in Special Education. With several years of classroom experience, she is especially skilled at adapting instruction to meet the needs of each individual rider. Her favorite subjects to teach—both in and out of the saddle—are math and science, which influence her structured, problem-solving approach to horsemanship.
Caitlin’s teaching philosophy centers on the “Core Four” of horsemanship: English, Western, groundwork, and driving. By exposing students to all aspects of horse care and riding, she ensures they develop a well-rounded skill set and a deeper understanding of horse behavior and communication.
At Opening Number Riding Academy, Caitlin is committed to more than just riding instruction. Through engaging, hands-on experiences, she fosters leadership, independence, and critical thinking skills in her students—empowering them to grow not only as riders, but as confident individuals.
ABOUT ALISON - Peanut Program Trainer
Alison has been a valued member of Opening Number Riding Academy since 2020, where she leads the Peanut Program, specializing in instruction for our youngest riders. With a lifelong love of horses and years of hands-on experience, Alison creates a welcoming and engaging environment where children can build confidence and foundational skills from the very beginning.
Alison has been passionate about horses from a young age and has owned her own horse since she was 11. She continues to develop her riding skills through regular lessons with Allison Chubb, a respected local event trainer, further strengthening the depth of knowledge she brings to her students.
She holds Associate’s degrees in both Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education from Cecil College, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Towson University. Alison is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Teacher as a Leader in Autism at Towson University, further strengthening her ability to support a wide range of learners.
As a local school teacher with extensive early childhood experience, Alison brings a strong educational foundation to her riding instruction. She incorporates games, movement, and hands-on activities to make learning both fun and meaningful. Her lessons focus not only on horsemanship and riding skills, but also on building important developmental skills such as social interaction, coordination, and confidence.
Alison’s patient, energetic, and supportive teaching style makes her a perfect fit for young riders beginning their journey with horses.
ABOUT AMANDA - Administrative & Finance Coordinator
Amanda has been a part of Opening Number Riding Academy since 2022, beginning as a student before quickly becoming a valued volunteer and now a key member of the team. In her role as Operations & Finance Manager, she supports the program by managing finances and helping ensure daily operations run smoothly behind the scenes.
Amanda developed her love for horses as a child and returned to riding after college. She now enjoys working with her horse, Ellie, and exploring a variety of disciplines while continuing to grow her horsemanship.
Her journey within the program reflects the supportive, growth-focused environment at Opening Number, and her dedication makes her an essential part of the team.
ABOUT NICHOLE - Assistant Operations Manager
Nichole joined Opening Number Riding Academy in 2020 as a supportive parent when her daughter began riding, but quickly rediscovered her own passion for horses. Having ridden extensively in her younger years, she jumped back into the equestrian world—starting by helping around the barn and soon returning to the saddle herself.
Now serving as Assistant Operations Manager, Nichole supports our operations of the program, subs as an instructor when needed, and coordinates Pony Club and horse show participation (mostly by wrangling everyone who is new to horse showing!) She plays a key role in helping families feel prepared and confident by organizing communication and guiding parents through the show process.
Her reliability, positive attitude, and ability to connect with both riders and families make her a trusted and valued member of the team.