Bethann Bodin grew up on a 1300 acre farm in Three Rivers, Michigan. As a farmer’s daughter I grew up understanding that hard work was a key to success in life. My life on the farm exposed me to many things but the most inspiring to me was horses. I had my first ride at 4 years old and instantly became obsessed with the 4 legged beast. From that point on I rode each and every one I could get my hands on (and actually survived to tell the stories). When I was 14 years old I was given the opportunity to work with an Arabian horse breeder, Mr. Gunnink. He inspired me and I learned so much to shape me into the horse handler and trainer that I am today. |
In the years following I had many more opportunities to apprentice under some of the best horse trainers in the world.
I merged my early acquired work ethic into my learned skill of training and handling horses into a fulfilling career of working with horses and people. In this process I also developed a method that I specialize in to retrain horses that have been labeled “problem horses”. I love working with both horses and their owners. In this effort we work together to create the respectful bond through consistency in training where trust is established between the horse and rider on the ground and under saddle. I started officially training horses and teaching professionally on Whidbey Island in 2000. Later as my business grew I moved to Snohomish Washington where I was able to make my business and my dream into a full time career. I also competed heavily in Western Games (28 patterns to race) as seen below on one of my horses, Pico and won 3 buckles and top 5 many seasons. Though I absolutely love racing, my true love and passion lies in teaching and training. I am so honored to now be in the beautiful Methow Valley doing what I love full time and so happy to be recently married to my soulmate and partner, Tom McKittrick. I am passionate about teaching the whole horse experience from the ground up to establish a respectful/safe partnership with horse and rider. Whether it’s guiding, teaching or training, my heart and soul is to Inspire and help you realize your dream of Horses! |
