What People Are Saying
“I have known Rochelle for approximately 20 years, at this time I helped her prepare for the Pan American Games trials, and since then I have coached her on many horses, and on all of them she has demonstrated her desire and dedication to their training. She has trained several horses now to the Grand Prix level, it is an accolade that few riders have achieved. Her commitment is to train horses in a correct, classical method. Her ability as a coach is demonstrated by the success of her students.”
– Leslie Reid, Canadian Olympian
“As an adult amateur rider who’s been in the saddle nearly thirty years, I’ve had my fair share of instructors. They have all had unique coaching styles (from condescending diva to hard driving “dressage-nazi”) but they’ve mostly shared the same fundamental operating principle. Namely, that the success of their students in a show ring is a direct reflection of their worth and ability as a coach. They all forgot to inquire what MY goal was and to offer to help me get there. Until I met Rochelle.
From the first lesson, it was clear that her main goal was to help me advance in any way she could. It was a refreshing bonus that her teaching style is calm, analytical and very supportive. She explains the concepts clearly and never raises her voice, or takes on that exasperated tone when the concepts take a while to sink in. Instead, she alters her approach until there is success.
She is ever respectful, motivating, kind, and amiable. She is genuinely happy when we achieve any short term goal and encouraging of long term goals.
The three of us (Rochelle, my horse, and me) make an “equilateral triangle” of a marvelous partnership.
While our student/coach relationship has dealt with the principles of dressage, Rochelle’s positive outlook on life and her understanding of human nature would make her an excellent life skills coach. A patient, guiding hand to lead you down the path you want to go. Take it from a much satisfied student/client when I say, “Hop on and go for the most exhilarating ride of your life.. You’ll be glad you did!”
– Sue Dawson
“I came to Hazelmere with a horse that had shut down from the pain he carried as a result of a turn-out incident, my confidence shaken and juggling an impossible work schedule. At Hazelmere with Rochelle’s systematic and steadfast guidance and attention to detail, the process of healing turned to rebuilding the athlete this horse once was and we left thriving. She is a trainer, a coach and a mentor. She demands your best and gives of herself selflessly and the horse primes in every aspect of the conversation. We moved to the Island and had to leave, but I would be back in a flash and hope to return from time to time for coaching, guidance and just plain good company!
P.S. Fun Fact – all the staff and boarders are a fantastic and amazingly supportive bunch! Grateful our paths crossed”
-Nathalie and Tennyson
“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them”. – Disney
Rochelle creates an atmosphere of support, encouragement and fun. She has a wealth of knowledge which she shares in a a clear and easy understanding manner. She has helped me grow into a confident rider. I leave each lesson feeling exhilarated ; and can’t wait until my next lesson. “
– Sheron Shum
“I have been a student of Rochelle’s since 2014 and have boarded at the beautiful Hazelmere facility continuously throughout that time. I have had an opportunity to observe the training and equine care over many years now and hold them both in the highest regard.
One of the things that fascinates me about Rochelle is how level-headed she is. No matter what is going down she remains calm and supportive, never once raising her voice to human or animal.
As for her coaching ability, I achieved some of my best PSG/I1 scores under Rochelle’s training and guidance. I have watched her develop students and their equine partners to countless wins and championships.
My journey has soared, dipped and altered course a number of times throughout my time at Hazelmere and Rochelle has been with me, supporting me, cheering me on and yes, picking up the pieces during that time.
As for the horses who live in this barn, they are happy. I have seen many a frazzled new arrivalsuccumbs to the magic of Hazelmere. Of course, that lends itself to success in training.
I would highly recommend this facility for boarding and Rochelle as a trainer.”
-Dr. Valerie Maks dvm
“Rochelle Kilberg has been my coach for the last 3 years. In the past, I found myself stuck in 3 weekly lessons with little progress. I badly needed a change and that’s when I reached out to Rochelle. A month later, I moved my horse to Hazelmere and after 30 days full training things had improved dramatically. Rochelle can not only ride, but from those training rides convey to her students what they need to do to feel and get the job done with their horse. Hazelmere is my happy place with a positive atmosphere and amazing team. I am so thankful that she shares her beautiful stable and knowledge with me.”
– Jessica Marquis
“Rochelle brings the ultimate trifecta of horsemanship to her team; A challenging program, a rewarding experience, a nurturing and confidence building environment. I am very happy for her knowledge and support as I am learning dressage.”
– Diana Davidson
“ Training with Rochelle has brought a positive transformation for my horse and me. She has helped us progress towards our goals in dressage with her calm clear communication and professional approach to teaching the levels. Not only is she a gifted rider herself, she is a wonderful teacher. Rochelle has a natural ability to read the rider and horse and pinpoint what needs to be worked on using the right exercises to develop the aids and timing. I’m a more confident and effective rider now and always look forward to our next training session.”
– Mavis Hamilton
“I have had the opportunity to watch Rochelle teach and ride one day a week for a few months now when I trailer in my 4 year old for a lesson. Rochelle is a very talented rider and trainer. As a rider she is very clear to the horse in what she wants and yet has empathy and a great connection with the horse. She rides with a quiet confidence that seems to build the horse up and Rochelle is quick to give praise where it is deserved, her timing is impeccable, yet through all of that her joy for riding shines through.
Watching her teach has been amazing and my respect for her has grown with each trip I have made to her facility. She is dedicated and hardworking and puts her all into each training session. She keeps a quiet and encouraging attitude all through the lessons. Rochelle seems to know just how to and how far to push you and your horse, and there is always such a huge progression from the beginning of the ride to the end.
I love my lessons with Rochelle; I look forward to them each week. She is very knowledgeable and clear in her way of teaching. Each lesson is something new and she gives me lots to work on for the week as well as the tools and understanding to train well. My first show with her was a great experience; she was there to teach, and support me in each warm up her relaxed manor at the show helped me and my young guy enjoy the showing experience. She truly is a great teacher and coach.”
~Mary Hofstede