SRS offers horse training, riding lessons, and camps. Our main focus is the American Saddlebred horse. We take many horses and riders to compete at horse shows statewide and nationwide. We are proud of our reputation of turning out a horse and rider to our standard of excellence and doing very well in competition.
It is our goal to establish true horsemanship in each of our riders, starting from the ground up. As a beginner at SRS you learn to properly groom and tack your horse before you ride. As you progress through our program you develop the knowledge and skill to be able to work with and ride many different types of horses.
Sarah Russell Owner/Trainer/Instructor
Sarah has had a passion and love for horses her entire life. Growing up in Michigan, she showed in 4-H and local horse shows and eventually worked her way up to the world class level. She had great success in the Saddlebred and Morgan industries earning World and National Championships within both breeds. She has also traveled to South Africa twice to compete as a member of the United States World Cup team, earning Gold Medals on both occasions. Sarah was the fourth rider in history to win the Morgan Equitation Triple Crown.
After graduating from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Animal Science, Sarah pursued her passion further and worked under some of the top horsemen in the country honing in on her training skills. In 2015 she accomplished her lifelong dream of opening her own stable. Her students and horses have been extremely successful with wins and reserves at horse shows all across the country including the World Championship Horse Show. Her favorite part of her job is sharing her love of the sport with her students.
Outside of the barn, Sarah is a USEF licensed judge and the Co-Chair of the UPHA Young Trainers Committee. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Ross, and her two beautiful children, Kellan and Peyton.
Claire Karst, Trainer, Instructor
Claire began riding at a young age and had a successful show career including winning at the World Championship Horse Show. She is passionate about the American Saddlebred and has worked hard to learn everything she could about this amazing breed of horse. She earned her equestrian degree from William Woods University. Upon graduation she was hired at a top show barn where she furthered her education in horse training. Claire is happy to be back in Florida and we are excited to have her on our team as a trainer and instructor.
Hailey Luedde, Assistant Trainer, Instructor
Hailey grew up riding and showing Saddlebreds right here in Florida earning many state highpoint awards. She began interning at SRS in 2019 and has become a vital member of our team. She is passionate about making sure our horses have the best care and paying close attention to detail. She enjoys every aspect of our industry from working with young horses to teaching young riders.
Laney Simpson, Instructor
Laney has had a lifelong passion for the American Saddlebred and has been riding and showing for many years. She had a lot of success in the equitation division under the Sarah Russell Stables banner. One of the highlights of her show career was being selected to represent the United States as a Team Member for the 2020 World Cup Team.
Laney has fostered the SRS Academy Program to what it is today and she is intensely devoted to bringing new riders into our industry and giving them a strong start.