Jill Knowles — A Premier Professional with 45 Years of Excellence
Welcome! I’m Jill Knowles, a dedicated rider trainer, consultant, and mentor in the dynamic arena of hunter/jumper show horses. My mission is simple: to help you and your horse thrive. Known for my caring approach and unwavering honesty, I listen to your needs, assess your challenges, and work with you to create a personalized plan that works—because I believe that every rider deserves a coach who understands both the heart and the art of the sport.
What I Do:
Listen & Understand
I start by getting to know your goals, challenges, and dreams. Your journey is unique, and so are the solutions I tailor for you.
Assess & Diagnose
With a detailed evaluation of your riding techniques, your horse’s performance, and your barn environment, I identify the key areas that need fine-tuning.
Brainstorm & Plan
Together, we explore various strategies—from innovative training methods to optimizing your barn’s design—to ensure you have a solid, actionable plan.
Execute & Support
I’m with you every step of the way, offering hands-on training and practical guidance to put our plan into action.
Evaluate & Refine
Success is a journey. We regularly assess progress and refine our approach, ensuring lasting improvements and a thriving partnership between you and your horse.
Then, we start over—to help achieve your next goal in your journey.
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Jill is a nationally competitive hunter/jumper professional with an eye for detail in her horses, students and facility. She has a sharp, discerning eye that carries over to her training with students obtaining top ribbons while competing at some of the country’s most prestigious horse shows.
Jill began riding at the age of seven and never looked back. Her tenacity earned her a Bachelor of Science degree in Equine Science, with majors in Teacher/Trainer and Facilities Management from Lake Erie College, which she graduated from in 1990. Jill has over 45 years of experience in the Hunter/Jumper industry. She established Hidden Knoll in 1994.
Jill’s background and training have been shaped by some of the nation’s leading professionals. In addition to her dressage foundation, her time training with Katie and Henri Prudent, as well as George Morris, has greatly influenced her current philosophies and methods.