Meet the Whinny Hill Team
Taryn Watts, Head Coach
With over 25 years of dedicated teaching experience spanning across all age groups and skill levels, Taryn brings a profound passion for the equestrian sport into the arena. Her wealth of knowledge extends beyond technical expertise; she possesses a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between horse and rider. Taryn places a paramount emphasis on the safety and well-being of everyone involved in these partnerships.
Her equestrian journey commenced at the tender age of 5, and since then, Taryn has developed an enduring love for sharing her profound insights with students. Whether aspiring for competitive success or simply pursuing the pleasures of riding, she imparts a robust foundation, enabling her students to achieve any goal they set for themselves.
Benefiting from exposure to numerous accomplished coaches and mentors over the years, Taryn has meticulously cultivated a well-rounded toolbox of skills to facilitate the learning process for others. While she enjoyed a successful competitive career in the hunter/jumper/equitation rings and boasts a background in Pony Club, her recent focus has shifted towards providing young horses with a confident start – from birth to their inaugural experiences in the show ring.
Taryn firmly believes that the lessons learned in the barn transcend beyond horsemanship, permeating into all aspects of life. Witnessing the pride that students feel when diligently working towards their accomplishments is what brings her the utmost joy.
Sherry Hudson, Director of Equine Assisted Programming
Sometimes in life, you look back over the path you’ve taken and see how all the experiences somehow lead to the place you are. Developing Equine Assisted Programs at Whinny Hill is an experience like that for me.
In my young life I was quite horse obsessed and spent many long hours wandering through the woods and along streams on my pony. This love took me to California where I studied to be a farrier and worked in the field until coming home to Canada to care for my ailing father. My life took a more serious turn, going to university to study business and education then out into another world of work. I started my own business and was a partner in a consulting firm, my work and volunteer time focused on program and organizational development for non-profit organizations. I was always drawn to projects that had meaning and impact.
Some health concerns lead me to start my lifelong journey of personal development, exploring various forms of body work and therapy on the path to finding my way home to myself. Eventually, my health took me from the workplace all together and deepened my personal journey.
Then, a call from a friend led me to Whinny Hill and the horses did the rest. Sharing their wisdom and teaching me to connect with them and the world around me. Robert and Alicia often shared their experiences of Equine Assisted Therapy and their desire to share the wisdom and healing of their herd in the community.
So now, a new journey has begun learning about horses in a whole new way and bringing together the professional and personal experiences of my life to begin a new path of learning to create Equine Assisted programming that helps our community heal, grow and thrive.
Sarah Dawson, Junior Instructor
Sarah's passion for riding and horses ignited in 2016 during her inaugural lesson with Taryn, and from that moment onward, she has remained captivated by the equestrian world. A seeker of challenges, Sarah's curiosity led her to explore the intricacies of training young horses, recognizing it as a fulfilling endeavor.
Acknowledging the diverse avenues for learning about riding, she broadened her knowledge by observing other lessons and witnessing seasoned riders engage with horses. This diversified approach has equipped her with a wealth of insights that she readily shares to assist others on their equestrian journeys.
Over the years, Sarah has become an invaluable asset to Taryn, extending her expertise to both new riders and horses. Her aspirations reach beyond personal accomplishments; she harbors dreams of becoming a teacher and trainer in the future. Sarah's amiable demeanor, coupled with her eagerness to offer assistance and answer queries, underscores her commitment to fostering a welcoming and knowledgeable equestrian community.
Kayla Wyle, Horsewoman
Kayla joined us at Whinny Hill about four years ago and has been looking after and riding our wonderful animals ever since. She is also studying the sciences at St. Mary's University, and is part of the Dalhousie University Equestrian Team.
Haley Wilson, Horsewoman
Haley is an graduate of Olds College's Farrier School and combines her high knowledge in equine hoof care and husbandry with over a decade of horseback riding experience. As the proud owner of two horses, she nurtures a deep bond with her equine companions. Beyond the stables, Haley finds joy in welding and driving, showcasing her diverse skill set and passion for hands-on activities.
Scott Ross, Friend
Scott is an invaluable member of our team. He is the consummate horse whisperer, as well as a jack of all trades (and master of most!). You will find him around most days, doing everything from fixing fences to checking in with his favorite horses.
Alicia Crooks, Owner, Dreamer
Approximately seven years ago, Alicia and her husband, Robert, serendipitously discovered an equine facility whose owners had departed, taking their horses and had a desire to sell. Seizing the opportunity, Alicia and Robert decided to acquire the property, transforming it into a sanctuary not only for horses in distress but also for individuals facing challenges.
Over the years, Whinny Hill has blossomed into a heartwarming haven, now home to 24 horses, 1 mule, 5 donkeys, 10 goats, 3 sheep, and a myriad of cats and dogs. Some residents were rescued, others carefully chosen, and some even born into the nurturing embrace of Whinny Hill—each one cherished and tended to with love.
The Whinny Hill Equine School stands as a testament to their commitment, offering riding lessons catering to all ages and skill levels, delivered with unwavering passion and care.
In an exciting development soon to be unveiled, the Whinny Hill EAL Facility will focus on the profound communication between horses and humans, aiming to instigate transformative changes in individuals. Recognizing the remarkable ability of horses to delve deep into human emotions, the program seeks to facilitate connections that unveil aspects of life needing attention. Merely engaging with a horse can catalyze self-realization, identify areas for healing, and prompt resolutions in one's life. Alicia harbours a heartfelt aspiration to witness these profound transformations take root at Whinny Hill, envisioning a future where the sanctuary becomes a catalyst for positive change and healing in the lives of those it touches.
