WINDCHASE WORKING STUDENT PROGRAM

     Windchase offers an exceptional Eventing working student program for dedicated riders who want to immerse themselves in training, horsemanship, and competition. Owned and operated by Olympic Event rider Phyllis Dawson, Windchase provides top‑quality instruction, excellent facilities, and a professional, supportive atmosphere on 267 acres beside the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Program Overview

     Working students receive:

• Daily lessons with our team of highly qualified trainers and USEA ECP‑certified instructors
• Full training board for their horse, or horses to ride if they do not bring one
• Experience riding multiple horses each day
• Opportunities to compete, ship to events, and learn all aspects of preparing for competition
• Opportunities to learn all aspects of stable management and horse care
• The chance to observe upper level Event riders training and competing
• The experience of attending top level Eventing competitions both as spectators and grooms
• Housing on the farm, with private bedrooms in a shared student house, all utilities paid, with Wi-Fi

     In exchange, students work five and a half days per week, participating in all aspects of horse care and barn management. Windchase maintains a very high standard of horsemanship, and students become an integral part of the Windchase team.

Training & Instruction
     Working students receive daily lessons on a variety of horses, with instruction focused on correct basics, confidence, and thoughtful progression. Riders come from across the country - and around the world - to train at Windchase. Many former students have gone on to successful careers as trainers, competitors, managers, and business owners.
     Phyllis Dawson competed at the highest levels of Three‑Day Eventing for over thirty years, including representing the USA in the Olympic Games and Open European Championships. She is certified at Level V, the highest rating offered by the USEA Eventing Coaches Program, and is an ECP Faculty member. Windchase instructors include Devon Sutherland, Clara Lenhart, Kendall Doran, and dressage specialist Jineen Reed.

Facilities
     Working students have full access to Windchase’s outstanding facilities:

• Large indoor and outdoor arenas with excellent footing
• Extensive cross‑country schooling from Starter through Intermediate
• Galloping hill, riding fields, and miles of trails
• Spacious turnout and quality stabling

Requirements & Expectations
    Applicants should:

• Be at least 17 years old
• Commit to a minimum of six months (occasinally exceptions can be made)
• Have competent riding and horse‑handling skills
• Be willing to work hard, learn, and contribute positively to the team

     Competition experience is not required—only dedication, responsibility, and a genuine desire to learn.
     Working students perform all types of barn work: feeding, grooming, mucking stalls, tacking up, cleaning tack, riding, and general stable chores. Windchase typically accepts four to five students at a time, ensuring individual attention and a strong team environment.

Tizi Prem and Shandon

Maggie Nichols with Oscar

Interviews & Application Process
    Prospective students should plan to visit Windchase for a one- or two-day interview/trial, ideally scheduled 3–6 months before the desired start date. This allows applicants to experience the program firsthand and ensures a good fit. With appropriate references, long-distance or international applicants may interview by phone.
     To arrange an interview, email pwindchase73@gmail.com. An application/questionnaire will be provided.

Additional Information
     Working students are not employees and must carry their own health insurance. Students are responsible for meals and any expenses related to their own horse (shoeing, vet care, competition fees). No smoking, no drugs, and no dogs. Part-time positions without housing are sometimes available.