👥 Meet the Team
At Equestrian Elite, we’re more than instructors — we’re passionate horsemen and mentors.
Our team brings decades of combined experience in riding, training, and competing at the highest levels. From first-time riders to national champions, we work together to help every student reach their full potential.
Our team brings decades of combined experience in riding, training, and competing at the highest levels. From first-time riders to national champions, we work together to help every student reach their full potential.
🐎 Liz Jones – Owner & Head Trainer of Equestrian Elite LLC
Liz is the heart of Equestrian Elite. With more than 20 years of professional training experience, she has coached dozens of riders to state, regional, and World Champion titles—many starting from their very first lesson. Liz specializes in Morgan horses and is known for her calm, supportive teaching style and deep expertise in youth, amateur, and professional divisions.
She is a proud member of:
Liz is the heart of Equestrian Elite. With more than 20 years of professional training experience, she has coached dozens of riders to state, regional, and World Champion titles—many starting from their very first lesson. Liz specializes in Morgan horses and is known for her calm, supportive teaching style and deep expertise in youth, amateur, and professional divisions.
She is a proud member of:
- AMHA
- USEF
- UPHA
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🌾 John & Kathy Knipper – Owners of Apple Jack Farm
John and Kathy Knipper are the proud owners and stewards of Apple Jack Farm, the home of Equestrian Elite. Their vision, dedication, and hospitality have created a peaceful, welcoming environment where both horses and riders can thrive. With a lifelong love for animals and the countryside, John and Kathy take great pride in maintaining the farm's facilities and natural beauty. They work behind the scenes to ensure the barn, grounds, and pastures are safe, well-kept, and inviting for all who visit. More than just property owners, the Knippers are beloved members of the Equestrian Elite family—always ready with a warm smile, a helping hand, or a kind word for riders, parents, and horses alike. Fun Fact: Apple Jack Farm is named after the Apple Orchards that use to be on the land where the farm is now. |
🐴 Kim Thomas – Trainer & Instructor
Kim brings a wealth of experience and a passion for developing both horses and riders. With a background in Equitation, dressage, and Morgan horse competition, she specializes in helping riders refine their skills and build the confidence to succeed in and out of the show ring. Kim has trained and coached multiple regional and national-level competitors and is known for her structured teaching style. Whether she’s working with a Tiny Tot just learning the reins or an advanced rider polishing their performance, Kim meets each student with focus, patience, and high standards.
She is a proud member of:
Fun Fact: Kim loves matching the perfect horse to each rider—and she has a knack for spotting hidden potential.
Kim brings a wealth of experience and a passion for developing both horses and riders. With a background in Equitation, dressage, and Morgan horse competition, she specializes in helping riders refine their skills and build the confidence to succeed in and out of the show ring. Kim has trained and coached multiple regional and national-level competitors and is known for her structured teaching style. Whether she’s working with a Tiny Tot just learning the reins or an advanced rider polishing their performance, Kim meets each student with focus, patience, and high standards.
She is a proud member of:
- AMHA
Fun Fact: Kim loves matching the perfect horse to each rider—and she has a knack for spotting hidden potential.
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🧹 Amy Monak – Barn Manager
Amy is the behind-the-scenes powerhouse who keeps Equestrian Elite running smoothly every day. As Barn Manager, she ensures that each horse receives top-quality care and that the facility stays clean, organized, and safe for all riders and visitors. Amy is a key part of the rider experience—from feeding and stall care to making sure all show horses are in top order. Amy’s dedication, attention to detail, and deep love for the horses make her a favorite among both four-legged and two-legged barn family members. Fun Fact: Amy never forgets a horse’s favorite treat! 🐎 Madison Bailey – Assistant Instructor
Madison brings energy, enthusiasm, and a strong teaching foundation to the Equestrian Elite program. As an Assistant Instructor and Lesson Coordinator, she works closely with beginner and intermediate riders, helping them develop confidence, correct form, and a love for learning. Madison is especially gifted at working with younger students, offering calm, clear instruction that helps riders feel supported from the ground up. Whether she’s leading a Tiny Tot session or organizing lesson schedules, Madison brings kindness and professionalism to everything she does. She is also an active competitor in the Morgan horse world, continuing to grow her own riding career alongside her students. Fun Fact: Madison has a soft spot for lesson ponies and is always the first to celebrate a student’s “first canter moment.” |
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🧼Jayden Milks–Assistant Barn Manager
Jayden plays an essential role in keeping Equestrian Elite running like clockwork. As assistant barn mangaer, he helps maintain clean, safe, and organized stalls and paddocks—making sure each horse is comfortable, healthy, and happy. Reliable, hard-working, and detail-oriented, Jayden’s behind-the-scenes efforts allow the training and lesson programs to shine. Whether it’s tackling a long list of barn chores or helping reset for the next group of riders, Jayden always brings a positive attitude and strong work ethic. Fun Fact: Jayden knows each horse’s stall by heart—and has been known to sneak them a carrot or two after a job well done. |
Proud Professional Members of:
UPHA |
AMHA |
USEF |