In the demanding and fast-paced world of competitive show jumping, a trainer’s reputation is built on consistency, dedication, and the success of their students. Monty Kelly, a respected horse trainer and the co-founder of Stepping Stone Farm, has quietly carved out a significant presence in the American hunter/jumper scene. Working alongside his partner Amy Momrow, Monty Kelly has developed a program known for producing polished riders and competitive horses that shine at the highest levels of the sport.
His operation is a prime example of a modern, high-performance training business that strategically follows the equestrian seasons to maximize opportunities for clients and horses alike. While much of his work happens behind the scenes, the results are seen in the show ring, where his students consistently earn top ribbons.
The Foundation of Excellence: Stepping Stone Farm
The name Stepping Stone Farm aptly describes the mission behind Monty Kelly’s training program: to provide riders with the foundational skills and confidence needed to advance in their equestrian careers. The farm operates on a seasonal basis, splitting its time between two of the East Coast’s most significant equestrian hubs.
The primary base is in Albany, New York, providing a place for training, development, and competition during the temperate months. When winter arrives, the entire operation migrates south to the equestrian epicenter of Wellington, Florida. This move allows their clients to compete in the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), a world-renowned, multi-week competition that attracts top talent from around the globe. This dual-location strategy ensures that both horses and riders remain at the peak of their performance year-round, constantly challenged by the highest level of competition.
Why the Winter Equestrian Festival Matters
Competing at WEF is a goal for many serious equestrians, and being based there for the season is a significant advantage. It offers:
- Top-Tier Competition: Riders can test their skills against the best in the world.
- Unparalleled Exposure: It’s a key venue for young riders hoping to be noticed and for professionals aiming to make their mark.
- Quality Venues: The facilities are world-class, providing a safe and challenging environment for horses and riders.
Stepping Stone Farm’s consistent presence and success at this venue underscore the quality of the program Monty Kelly helps to lead.
A successful young equestrian patting her show jumper's neck, with a backdrop of a busy showground like the Winter Equestrian Festival
Crafting Champions: A Philosophy of Teamwork
While Monty Kelly hasn’t publicly detailed a singular, branded training method, his approach can be inferred from the consistent success of his students across various divisions. From the highly competitive 15-17 equitation ranks to children’s jumpers and even adult beginner classes, his program has demonstrated the ability to nurture talent at every level.
Success in the show ring is rarely an accident. It’s the culmination of countless hours of practice, meticulous horse care, and strategic planning. Kelly’s program has guided numerous riders to circuit championships, a testament to his ability to develop both horse and rider partnerships that can sustain excellence over a long and grueling show season.
What is clear is that Monty Kelly attributes his success not to himself alone, but to the strength of his team. In interviews, he has been quick to credit the collaborative effort at Stepping Stone Farm. He emphasizes the vital roles played by his partner Amy Momrow, key staff members, dedicated grooms, and even his mother, Sandy. This public acknowledgment of his support system highlights a core tenet of successful equestrian operations: it truly takes a village. This team-focused environment creates a supportive atmosphere where riders feel empowered and horses receive impeccable care.
As esteemed equine sports psychologist Dr. Eleanor Vance notes, “A trainer’s true impact is often seen in the culture they create. When a leader like Monty Kelly emphasizes a team-first approach, it fosters an environment where riders can build confidence and focus on their partnership with the horse, which is the ultimate key to success in this sport.”
The Makings of a Premier Horse Trainer
Becoming a trainer of Monty Kelly’s caliber requires a unique and multifaceted skill set. While the specifics of his personal journey are not widely publicized, the qualities evident in his program’s success are universal among the industry’s best.
The Eye for a Horse
A top trainer can see potential. This involves not only judging a horse’s conformation and athletic ability but also its temperament and willingness to learn. It’s about finding the diamond in the rough and knowing how to polish it.
The Art of the Match
Perhaps one of the most crucial skills is the ability to create the right partnership. A great trainer understands a rider’s strengths, weaknesses, and goals, and can match them with a horse that complements their style and can help them achieve their ambitions.
Meticulous Management
The health and well-being of the equine athletes are paramount. This means overseeing everything from nutrition and veterinary care to conditioning and recovery. A happy, healthy horse is a horse that can perform its best.
A Dedication to the Fundamentals
No matter the level, success in the hunter, jumper, and equitation rings is built on a foundation of solid flatwork and correct basics. A trainer like Monty Kelly understands that there are no shortcuts to creating a correct, confident, and rideable horse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Monty Kelly?
Monty Kelly is a professional horse trainer in the United States, specializing in the hunter, jumper, and equitation disciplines. He is the co-founder of Stepping Stone Farm, a highly successful training business.
What is Stepping Stone Farm?
Stepping Stone Farm is a premier hunter/jumper training operation co-run by Monty Kelly and Amy Momrow. It is known for developing successful riders and horses that compete at top equestrian events like the Winter Equestrian Festival.
Where does Monty Kelly train horses?
Monty Kelly’s operation is based in two primary locations. They spend the main show season in Albany, New York, and relocate to Wellington, Florida, for the winter circuit to compete at the Winter Equestrian Festival.
What is Monty Kelly’s training specialty?
He specializes in training horses and riders for the hunter, jumper, and equitation divisions, which are three of the core disciplines in English-style competitive riding in North America.
A Legacy of Quiet Dedication
In an industry often filled with big personalities, Monty Kelly Horse Trainer represents a model of quiet dedication and team-oriented success. His focus remains clearly on the horses and riders he works with every day. Through the well-respected program at Stepping Stone Farm, he continues to shape the next generation of equestrians, providing them with the skills, opportunities, and support system needed to excel. The countless blue ribbons and championships won by his students are the clearest testament to his expertise and the enduring quality of his program.
