“My program is unique!” “Unlike many training programs, each horse and rider’s needs are considered.” “My facility provides a safe, ‘private school’ atmosphere with a variety of training environments to help you and your horse develop confidence.” “With adequate time under saddle in a variety of conditions, having a versatile horse who can do it all is truly possible here at Versatility Training Concepts.” -Valerie SchmidtThe%20Facility.htmlshapeimage_1_link_0
Valerie Schmidt
Ponying youngsters off another horse is an important part of my conditioning and training program.
Obstacle training encourages confidence and trust.
Putting finishing touches on student Cambria Demarco.
My unique training program stems from a lifelong love of the horse, and a lifetime of experience.
    From starting colts to showing Class A, Regional, and National winners, my 30 years of experience has given me the knowledge to do what it takes to train a truly versatile horse who can truly do it all, in the showring or out on the trail.
    I work with all breeds of horses and all disciplines. I started my career as apprentice trainer to master cutting horse trainer Joe Heim of Thackerville, Oklahoma where I honed my skills starting all breeds of high level show horses.
    I am well known as a competent horsewoman who can and will produce results with even the most difficult horse- without using abusive tactics or shortcuts.
    I am also regarded by my students as an excellent, insightful instructor.
I welcome riders who look to have fun and ride with confidence!
Training
I offer my clients one on one customized horse training based upon both your goals and your horse’s needs at my beautiful full service facility in Warner Springs.
    My passion and gift is working with young horses, starting their journey under saddle to later become showring winners or user friendly companions for owners who desire a horse who “can do a little of everything.”
    Whether you want a Class A winner or a solid and steady trail horse, I have experience in all the divisions and riding disciplines: Hunt Seat, Saddle Seat, Western, Reining, Dressage, Sport Horse, Driving, Endurance, Gymkhana, and Trail.
Valerie with the Arabian gelding Vermillion.
Philosophy The horse’s training program is always developed with safety in mind. Each horse is started slowly while I evaluate their individual personality and abilities along with the owner’s goals and riding experience. I believe if each horse receives a positive initial learning experience, then those horses will always be willing to work in harmony with their rider’s expectations. Whether they are headed toward the show ring or as a family member in the backyard or backcountry, a positive foundation will yield a lifetime of results. Many times horses fall through the cracks at large facilities, where they miss this individualized attention. My training program provides quality one on one attention to you and your horse so that no detail in your horse’s training is overlooked. A correct foundation results in: Trust in rider/handler. Confidence in the arena and on trail. Sensitivity to the aids and rider. Willingness to work. A Happy and Safe Equine Companion!
A joy to ride!