The new year brings new beginnings and a flurry of activity for many. At NLHTM things are no different. This year is already off to a running start with a new group of trainers of various breeds and disciplines, and a brand new schedule of clinics and expos. And, there is a new face around the farm these days too, one that is becoming more and more well known by the people that come and go at NLHTM, and of a gal that is becoming an integral part of the day to day operations of the farm.
NLHTM happily welcomes Anna Jacob as the newest training apprentice and barn manager at NLHTM for 2012.  Anna has had a lifelong passion for horses and horsemanship and a history as an equestrian which includes endurance riding throughout the Mid-Atlantic, competing in Hunter/Jumper events, and giving riding lessons to many at various locations.
Anna is interested in a wide variety of equestrian disciplines including eventing, reining, and dressage and has a strong desire to learn more about Natural and Classical horsemanship. Her pursuit for knowledge and more experience led her to NLHTM.
She began volunteering at Next Level HorsemanshipTM in the summer of 2011 and dedicated her time learning the routine of the daily operations including feeding, turnout, and health management practices, and soon began assisting with training sessions after learning the basics of the NLHTM Program.
Anna proved to have the ability to learn the timing, feel and balance necessary to become a exceptional horsewoman. She is a strong rider and has the rare and raw talent needed to be successful as a horse trainer across disciplines. She has a keen eye for detail in the exercises she performs with the horses, has the patience and persistence necessary to be steadfast in her interactions with them, and is tough enough to handle the most challenging situations – including constructive criticism from her teacher!
And, she’s smart! In May of 2012, Anna will graduate from The Penn State University with a degree in Toxicology and minors in French and Global Health. Afterwards she will continue her apprenticeship at NLHTM throughout the following year.
Anna is an exceptional person as well as an equine talent. She has a special knack for teaching and loves to help others learn to ride. As she learns the NLHTM Training Program in depth, she will also be helping other riders improve their skills through lessons.
In August of this year, Anna will put her new-found skills as a trainer to the test by competing in an Extreme Mustang Makeover challenge to be held in NJ. She will have just 100 days to gentle and train a wild American mustang and compete with her peers to showcase the talents and abilities of her horse.
I have no doubt she will be a huge success and will forever be blessed by the experience.
Please join us in welcoming Anna Jacob to Next Level HorsemanshipTM!