Virginia Welcomes 
Every Rider to Be Part of Something Greater

Sharon is the owner and operator of Riva Ridge Farm in Reva, Virginia. Since beginning her equestrian career in 1993, she and her husband, Chip, have developed and managed successful facilities, including the former Blacks Hill Stables in Great Falls. With over 30 years of experience, Sharon brings a deep commitment to horsemanship and equitation. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes safety, skill, and fun, and she is passionate about guiding young riders as they grow into the next generation of confident, knowledgeable horsewomen.

A respected leader in Virginia's equine industry, serving as the President of the Virginia Equine Alliance, the organization responsible for passing the Historic Horse Racing legislation that led to the reopening of Colonial Downs. Through her role, she works tirelessly to advance the interests of horse owners, breeders, and industry professionals, advocating for policies and initiatives that support the growth of Virginia’s equine industry. Debbie’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among various equine organizations, ensuring a strong, unified voice for the Commonwealth’s horse industry.

Gail Rezendes-Dell is a successful amateur hunter rider competing in the Mid-Atlantic region with her Oldenburg, The Best Man. She is the Co-Founder of Show Ring Essentials, an equestrian brand dedicated to enhancing the horse show experience. Originally from New Jersey, Gail grew up riding horses and participating in 4-H. She attended college in Virginia and has since made McLean, Virginia her home, where she raised her family and continues to pursue her passion for horses.

David owns and operates DreamLands Farm in Virginia with his wife, Carol. The couple specializes in breeding, selling and showing Paint Horses; they also stand LAA Heza Deluxe, a 1999 palomino tobiano stallion. Active in the Virginia Paint Community, David served as president of the Virginia Paint Horse Club from 2011 to 2016 and now continues as the director.

Amy owns South Gate Farm in Millwood, Virginia, where she breeds, raises, and sells thoroughbred race horses. She bred Forte, who was named the Eclipse Award Champion Two-Year-Old Colt in 2022. Amy has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Virginia Thoroughbred Association since 2018, and has served as the Treasurer, Vice President, and President of that organization. Amy has also served on the Board of Directors of the Virginia Equine Alliance, and she has been appointed by the Virginia Racing Commission as a member of the Virginia Breeders Fund Advisory Committee. Amy has a graduate degree and a law degree from the University of Virginia and has lived in Virginia for more than 40 years. After a youth spent foxhunting, showing hunters, breaking yearlings, and galloping race horses, Amy practiced law as a partner in Covington & Burling in Washington, DC. When she retired from law practice, Amy returned to her equestrian roots at South Gate Farm in rural Clarke County.

Gretchen is originally from Colorado and developed her love of horses as a young child. She has been an avid dressage rider for more than 20 years. She has volunteered her time at therapeutic riding facilities and continues to be involved in equine rescue. Gretchen lives with her husband on their farm in Keswick.

Oliver grew up on his family’s 75-year-old farm in Rappahannock County and began hunting with the Rappahannock Hunt in 1956. He went on to serve as huntsman for 20 years. A lifelong advocate for youth and education in the horse world, he remains active in his community’s 4-H program and is a leader in the Culpeper County Horse Program, founded by his father in 1961. Oliver is a firm believer in the importance of education within the equine industry.

Frank Ferguson lives with his wife Terri in Loudoun County, and enjoys both competitive and recreational equestrian activities, including amateur showjumping and cross-country trail riding. For many years he was a member of the Orange County Hunt. As a professional, Frank is a strategic transformation and restructuring executive with deep experience advising complex, global organizations. He holds honors degrees in Economics and Finance from Villanova University and an MBA in International Business from George Mason University, including study at the University of Oxford.