In the world of competitive hunter/jumper riding, certain names echo with reverence in show rings and stable aisles. These are the trainers who don’t just teach riding; they build dynasties of champions, horse and human alike. At the forefront of this elite group is Don Stewart, a horse trainer whose name is synonymous with success, horsemanship, and an unwavering dedication to excellence that has shaped the sport for decades. His Ocala, Florida-based operation has been a veritable factory for top-tier talent, producing a stunning number of the nation’s best horses and riders.
Who is Don Stewart?
Don Stewart’s journey began with a passion for horses at age eight in North Carolina. This early start laid the foundation for a storied career, first as a decorated rider and later as one of the most respected trainers in the United States. Before becoming the go-to coach for aspiring champions, Stewart amassed an impressive record of his own, earning multiple championship wins at prestigious events like the Washington International, Devon, and the National Horse Show. This firsthand experience at the highest levels of competition provided him with the deep understanding and intuitive feel necessary to guide others to the winner’s circle.
His transition from rider to full-time trainer was a natural one, leading to the establishment of Don Stewart Stables. For years, this facility has been a magnet for serious equestrians aiming to dominate the hunter, jumper, and equitation rings. While other trainers like the celebrated lukas horse trainer have made their mark in different equestrian spheres, Don Stewart’s influence in the hunter/jumper world is unparalleled.
The Don Stewart Training Philosophy
What is the secret to such enduring success? The Don Stewart method isn’t about shortcuts or gimmicks; it’s rooted in a deep, abiding respect for the fundamentals of classical horsemanship. His philosophy emphasizes a strong foundation, meticulous attention to detail, and the development of a true partnership between horse and rider.
Core Principles of Stewart’s Training
- Mastery of the Basics: Before a rider can win a major final, they must master the basics. Stewart’s program drills fundamentals relentlessly, ensuring that both horse and rider have a solid base of flatwork, adjustability, and balance.
- Horsemanship First: For Stewart, the horse always comes first. He instills in his students a profound sense of responsibility for their animal’s care, conditioning, and mental well-being. A happy, healthy horse is a winning horse.
- Mental Fortitude: Competing at the top requires more than just physical skill; it demands mental toughness. Stewart is known for challenging his riders, pushing them to be resilient, focused, and strategic thinkers under pressure.
- An Evolving Approach: While his core values are timeless, Stewart is not stuck in the past. He recognizes the evolution of the sport and adapts his methods to bring out the best in modern horses and riders, blending traditional wisdom with contemporary techniques.
A Legacy of Champion Riders and Horses
The most telling measure of a trainer’s impact is the success of their students. By this metric, Don Stewart is in a league of his own. The list of riders who have trained under him and gone on to win major national championships is extensive. He has coached riders to victory in the prestigious USEF Hunter Seat Medal Final and the ASPCA Maclay Final multiple times.
His daughter, Erin, is a product of his training system, having won the coveted ASPCA Maclay in 2002 and achieving numerous championships as a junior and amateur rider before turning professional. This is just one example among many, including names like Kelley Farmer, Hunter Holloway, and Spencer Smith, who have all benefited from his guidance. His stable is also responsible for producing countless “Horse of the Year” winners, sourcing and developing talented animals into polished champions.
What Makes Training with Don Stewart Unique?
Riding with Don Stewart is an immersive experience. It’s not just about weekly lessons; it’s about joining a program dedicated to creating the best. Riders at his stable compete year-round across the nation, gaining invaluable experience at every major horse show. The environment is competitive yet supportive, with a team atmosphere that fosters growth and camaraderie.
Dr. Sarah Miller, a fictional expert in equestrian sports psychology, notes:
“A program like Don Stewart’s succeeds because it creates a culture of excellence. Riders aren’t just taught how to win; they are taught to think like winners. This mindset, combined with elite technical instruction and superior horsemanship, is what produces such consistent and remarkable results.”
While he recently sold his large-scale business, Don Stewart Stables, he remains a pivotal figure in the sport, still based in Ocala and deeply involved in the industry. His influence continues through the many professionals he has mentored and the high standards he helped establish.
The Enduring Impact of a Master Horseman
Don Stewart’s career is a testament to the power of dedication, knowledge, and an unshakeable commitment to classical principles. As a master Don Stewart Horse Trainer, he has not only produced generations of champions but has also served as a guardian of good horsemanship. He has been instrumental in shaping the rules and standards of the sport, serving on committees like the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association Junior Hunter Task Force. His legacy is seen in every student who enters the ring with confidence, every horse that jumps in beautiful form, and in the enduring ideal that great riding is born from a great partnership.
