Meet the Whinny Hill Team
Vanessa Sarty, Farm Manager
Vanessa’s love for horses has been foremost in her life since she was a young girl. It was in her early teenage years that her equestrian journey really started. It began with Western riding lessons. In less than a year of riding under her belt, Vanessa also began her debut in the show ring, where she successfully competed in both Western and English events, such as halter, showmanship, Western pleasure, horsemanship, English pleasure and hunt-seat equitation.
She was fortunate to ride and show multiple great horses over the years, and had the opportunity to be coached by some great horsemen and horsewomen within the Atlantic provinces, along with a few clinics from trainers from the US.
Vanessa is actively involved in 4-H, where she is a proud co-general leader and Horse Leader with the Lapland 4-H Club, as well as being on the 4-H NS Horse Committee.
Whinny Hill is also very pleased to announce that we are now a certified Canadian Pony Club Centre, and Vanessa will be managing and promoting our new regional Pony Club.
She has over 15 years of experience in the horse world and is currently working on completing her western coach certification requirements.
Vanessa learned from the very beginning the importance of animal health and welfare, not just in equines, but in all animals. She loves each animal as her own at Whinny Hill and is committed to putting their own individual needs foremost.
Taryn Watts, Head Coach
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 Wile, 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.
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.
