Kelly Rickard, Director of Alpha Equestrian Center, home of Heaven’s Gait Therapeutic Riding, is a PATH Certified Therapeutic Instructor. She has been practicing in the Woodstock area since 2009. Her motivation for building an Equestrian Therapy Center stems from her deep belief in God and the desire to minister to special needs children and adults and their families through the use of horses. The Center provides a welcoming environment for individuals to learn, grow and achieve their full potential.
Riding Instructor Danielle Isgett holds a BS in Psychology, and is a graduate C3 of Cohutta Highlanders Pony Club. With 9 years of experience, she teaches ages from 5 years to adult, beginner through advanced, with priorities of well-rounded horsemanship, including care of the horse. Her showing experience is in Eventing, IEA, IHSA, Dressage, and Hunters. Danielle is also a PATH Certified Therapeutic Instructor, and promotes safety and optimal outcomes in equine-assisted activities and therapies for people with special needs.
Rachel Moss holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University. She was a neurodevelopmental teacher before combining her passions and coming to teach therapeutic riding lessons for the special needs community. Rachel volunteered for two years at a center before becoming a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. She has been riding for 17 years, competing in local Hunter/Jumper shows.
Trainer and Riding Instructor Dr. Kara O’Connor Yarbrough holds a Bachelor’s degree in Equine Science from Lake Erie College and a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Life University. She is certified in Animal Chiropractic, Equine Postural Rehabilitation, and Equine Sports Massage. Kara has won multiple championships in hunter, jumper and equitation and continues to compete professionally in those and dressage. Kara is the head coach for two IEA Equestrian Teams: Lassiter H.S. and Pace Academy teams here at Alpha Equestrian Center.
Maryanne Fearer has over 15 years of experience working with horses and teaching young riders and adults hunt-seat and jumping lessons. She has competed herself at local and rated shows and her love for the sport is reflected in the progress of her students. Maryanne teaches beginner lessons to jumping depending on the goals of each student. She is so excited being part of the Alpha Equestrian Riding Program!
