Welcome!
AbendrothEquine is a full service Hunter/Jumper program out of Monroe, Washington. We use methods of training that emphasize the relationship between flatwork to jumping in a holistic setting. What makes us unique is the teaching of equine biomechanics to better connect with your partner, enhance performance and keep your horse healthy for the long term.
At AbendrothEquine, we genuinely care about your horse’s well being and your success together. We offer a team environment, which means putting your horse first and celebrating each achievement together towards your goal!
AbendrothEquine empowers owners to be involved with the decision of your horse. Owners are encouraged to ask questions to deepen their understanding as horsemen. While we provide a complete service, including training, lessons, feeding, farrier scheduling, vet scheduling, clipping, hauling, bodywork and showing, this program is for hands-on riders who want to be involved.
Get out of the arena and have adventures with your horse! We attend local shows, clinics, trail rides and our annual beach trip!
About our Trainer
Michelle Abendroth was your typical horse crazy kid and after years of begging her Mom she started riding at the age of 7. After her very first riding lesson she said on the car ride home, “I just don’t understand why I’m not jumping yet.” Between her twice monthly lessons Michelle studied books about horses - how to take care of them and regularly stayed late at the barn offering to sweep or feed.
At the age of 12 Michelle became a working student to fund her riding and showing. She would clean stalls, turnout, water, feed and teach beginner riding lessons. From there she graduated to grooming at the “A” rated horseshows - wrapping, clipping, bathing, saddling and lunging. Over time, Michelle had more horses to ride which were primarily green and sales horses. Including bringing a green rescue pony who was her project at the time to the Emerging Athletes Program in Bend, Oregon. Michelle had many catch rides at the rated shows but could always been seen late into the evening still wrapping, grooming and bathing. At this time, Michelle also began starting young, unhandled and unbroke horses at home.
Several years later, Michelle became a professional at the age of 18. She worked for several barns in the PNW including Sundance Equestrian, Magnolia Ridge Training, Brick Road Farms and most recently Potcreek Meadow Farm staying with each for several years to learn more about the industry. During this time, she competed regularly at the “A” rated level in the bigger classes both in the hunters and jumpers. AbendrothEquine was officially started in 2018 with the pursuit of “striving for a gentler equine approach” in the hunter/jumper setting. Michelle has dedicated her program to studying equine biomechanics and how to train horse and rider with more sustainable methods.
"I have been riding with Michelle for over a year and a half. She has helped me train my baby horse from the start and I don't know where I'd be without her! Michelle is a wonderful trainer and is able to help me in so many ways. She's tough, level headed and very understanding and kind. I look forward to riding with Michelle in the years to come!"
-Olivia
"As an experienced rider I started riding with Michelle to learn new techniques to advance my riding. Over the last four years, I have improved my riding by leaps and bounds. Michelle has invested in my riding by finding new exercises to work through, clearly explaining concepts, and suggesting new techniques. I am always excited for my lessons and find Michelle's positive approach to working with horse and rider very effective. I would recommend Michelle as a trainer for anyone looking to learn, grow, and develop as a rider. "
-Brigid
Michelle is a very hard working trainer and takes the time to figure out and accommodate your learning style. Rider and horse safety is her top priority and the second is to help you achieve your potential. Michelle doesn't yell when you don't understand the exercise, she slows down and explains the purpose which has helped my riding and anxiety a lot.
-Eva