Karin Apple is a Bay Area born and raised equestrian. She began her riding journey at 5 years old in Portola Valley and spent her junior years learning the ropes of the hunters and jumpers under trainers including Lyn Irving, John Charlebois, Missy Froley, Cindy Brooks, and more.

At 16 years old Karin began as a working student for Jill Hamilton and Nancy Thomas, and turned professional at 18 years old. From there she has worked under trainers as an assistant, developing her personal horse Duchess in dressage and show jumping, as well as managing the Menlo Circus Club riding school, and working as a freelance trainer. Karin also spent many years under the mentorship of Dezraye Choi, an accomplished Grand Prix rider and exceptional horsewoman. 

Karin offers training for horses, both groundwork and under saddle, and coaching for riders. With an emphasis on kind horsemanship and developing the relationship between horse and rider to achieve their goals in and out of the saddle. Whether you are wanting to compete, or just enjoy time with your horse, Karin is more than happy to provide her services to facilitate those goals.

Assistant Trainer Ari Kann-Ortua is very involved in RAE and brings Hunter/Jumper and Three Day Eventing experience with her to complement the dressage program at RAE. Ari is also available to support clients who  compete in the jumping disciplines.

Elena’s goal with each horse and rider is to impart knowledge of excellent horsemanship and develop harmony through partnership with the horse.  Riseaboveequestrian@yahoo.com