Erin Merlino- Owner/Head Trainer
About Erin
Erin has been on a horse since she could first walk. With her family having horses, she was started in lessons as early as age 4. With over 30 years of riding experience, Erin has done a little bit of everything. From working at stables, to competing in the jumpers with her first horse, to being on her college IHSA team, competing through the 4-H ranks, and working with and learning from the best trainers in the industry. Erin spent 7 years competing at the top level of the sport, at some of the elite hunter/jumper shows on the "AA" circuit. Competing successfully with her horses at prestigious shows such as HITS Saugerties and Ocala, Swan Lake, The Golf Coast Winter Classic, Old Salem, Saratoga Classic, Vermont Summer Festival, Raleigh, and State College Classic to name a few. During that time, she competed and won numerous occasions in the Hunters and Hunter Derbies gaining invaluable show experience, and learning from the expertise of the trainers at that prominent level on riding and horse management. She is now able to take her knowledge back to her students and program.
Erin's teaching philosophy
Erin feels so blessed to be able to wake up everyday and do a job she loves. Horses and teaching is truly her passion in life. Her top priority when teaching a student, regardless if they are a first time rider or experienced, is that the rider is enjoying their experience, and gaining the knowledge and skills to progress in the sport. Erin wants all her students to learn in a fun and relaxing way, without too much pressure. Safety is of the upmost importance to her and her staff, and that is why she ensures all her lesson assistants and horses are properly trained; and that everyone learning at Cambria is getting the proper instruction. Erin believes in a solid flatwork foundation before jumping, and ensuring a student can confidently perform one technique on a horse before moving on to something more advanced.
Meet the Assistants
Erin relies on her incredible assistants to help her run Cambria Stables.
We also have some talented young ladies who regularly help as lesson assistants. These girls are all advanced students of Erin's, most owning their own horse. Their bubbly personalities and love of kids, makes for a great combination to help out with our new and younger riders under Erin's watchful eye.
We all hope to meet you soon!