Maria Miller Equestrian

About

Bringing my extensive equestrian knowledge from the UK to NZ where I was based with Jules Cournane nee Stiller, and Mark Todd, among other Olympic riders.

Story

A little about me....

A passion for horses lead me to riding and further equine education with attainment of a National Diploma in Horse Management at triple distinction, along with being awarded top student, BHS Stage 1 and 2, and NVQ 3. My results and work ethic lead to a job offer from Jules Cournane (nee Stiller) that exposed me to top level equestrian competition.

I ran the prestigious Headley Stud for three years, the base of Jules Cournane and Mark Todd. This position involved and exposed me to top level schooling, from youngsters to 4* horses, coaching, and competing throughout the UK and Europe. Competing included my own and owners competition horses including rides from other professionals producing them to one star level.

Management of Headley Stud allowed close working relationships with elite eventers including temporary management of facilities used by Giovanni Ugolotti (ITA), Kathryn Robinson (CAN), Owen Moore (GBR), and USA riders prior to 4* events among others.

This was an amazing opportunity for me having access to the best training and gained extensive experience of the international eventing circuit including grooming at
Burghley, Blenheim, Luhmühlen, and at the London Olympic test event.

After my time at Headley Stud I worked for Marilyn Little (USA) while she was based in then UK prior to the 2012 Olympics, and GBR junior rider Will Furlong. Working with Will Furlong allowed me to use my previous experience at Headley Stud to help produce medal winning GBR junior team horses. Prior to emigrating to New Zealand I was employed at the top performing Private School in Equestrian sports with management of facilities and training of students and schooling.

I am skilled in various training techniques using approaches based on individual horses needs to enhance performance. Working with Tracey Duncan and Liz Eaton during my time in the UK helped my understanding of individual approaches and continue to be an inspiration to my work to achieve the best results for the horse and rider.