About The Trainers

Jade Hodgeson began her equestrian career at an early age….little did she know that a Doctor’s recommendation for engaging in exercises that would help with her vision would, at age 7, awaken a life-long love of horses.  
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A military brat, she continued her riding in Arizona on the “A” circuit, competing in pony jumpers and earning a spot at the Pony Finals at the prestigious Kentucky Horse Park.  After growing out of the pony world, she established an impressive Equitation career, winning numerous year-end awards and placing in numerous medal classes.  Of note, as a 13 year old, she was invited to participate in the first ever Emerging Athletes Program, led by Melanie Smith Taylor.  Her next career phase concentrated on jumpers, as she competed across the Southwest and West Coast at various levels, including the regional standard grand prix level.
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Upon graduating from high school, Jade attended the University of Arizona, graduating with a BS in Animal Sciences, Equine Emphasis.  Her studies included working closely with the famed Al-Marah Arabians, as she helped breed, foal out and engage in different training methods for weanlings and yearlings.
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Turning professional, Jade worked for trainers and barns under the tutelage of Julie Smith, Denise Finch, Britt Harley, Suzanne Whittington, and Holly Small. 

Robin grew up riding and showing in Tucson and then moved to the Pacific Northwest for school.  She graduated with a BA in Psychology from the University of Portland in 2012.  Since turning professional post-graduation, Robin has found a true passion for developing young horses; from their first moments under saddle to their success in the show ring.  Robin has years of experience in coaching riders of all levels in the hunters, jumpers, and equitation.  Her students have found success from winning OHJA Medal finals to attending IEA National Finals in Harrisburg, PA.

As a trainer, Robin understands that there is always more to learn and has had the opportunity to ride with many great clinicians such as; Greg Best, Julie Winkel, Jeff Cook, Nick Karazissis Jr., and Harriet Bunker. In 2019 she became a Certified Trainer through the USHJA Trainer Certification Program.

Robin is committed to the equestrian community and was elected to the board of the Oregon Hunter Jumper Association in 2017.  She was re-elected in 2020 and served as OHJA President. As a board member, Robin was instrumental in advocating for safe local shows and building the Academic Scholarship program.

Robin moved back to Tucson in 2021 to be closer to family (and sunshine!) and is thrilled to be back home and part of the Shady Tree Stables Team.