Robin-Lynn Byrne

Robin's parents soon realized that horses and riding were not going to be a hobby but rather a life long passion; some would call it an obsession.

After a few years of showing and teaching jumping, Robin was encouraged to try Dressage by a fellow instructor.

After an intense introduction to Dressage and the classical German principals of the sport, Robin decided to further her training in Dressage. As a junior, Robin trained with many advanced local trainers and participated in numerous clinics. Throughout these years, Robin won several awards and Championships.

It was as a junior competitor that Robin was offered a position and her first sponsored horse at DB Farms. It was here that Robin began teaching clients of her own and training some of DB's horses. She also learned to drive draft horses and began showing them in the ring.

Although this experience was rewarding, Robin wanted to continue further in training. In order to gain a better understanding of training and bringing along young horses, Robin trained with Kirstin Blaskie during her last years of high school. This also provided Robin with the opportunity to ride more experienced horses, allowing her to show at the National level.

Robin then went on to University. Over three years, Robin obtained two degrees from The University of Ottawa in Communications and Political Science, with concentrations in International Policy and Media Communications. The time at school began the need to train closer to home and thus, the development of Stone Meadows. Robin gradually started to buy quality show horses of her own and the first stable was constructed.

Sovereign was her first purchase. He was imported sight unseen. Shortly after his arrival, Robin bought another horse, Benidictum. Although Ben was older, he was not started under saddle and had just been gelded at the age of four. Robin began to use the skills that her years of training had given her in order to develop these two young horses.

Within two months of the barn's completion, Stone Meadows was full and all her coaching times were booked. Most of the original boarders that came to Stone Meadows then are still with the farm today, almost seven years later.

Robin's students and horses have competed throughout the Ottawa area and have won numerous awards and championships. Her focus is always on understanding, correct position and she always has the horse's well-being in mind. Riding needs to be enjoyable for both the horse and rider to feel a sense of accomplishment. This is what Robin strives for everyday.

Robin continues to teach and train all the horses at Stone Meadows, as well as freelance teaching and training at several other stables in Canada. She is currently showing Sovereign, as well as her new Prix St. George mount Cedrik (sponsored by Joe Greco of Long Island, New York). She will also be showing some young prospect horses that are for sale.

Robin continues her training with Canadian Team member Belinda Trussell and Christilot Boylen. Belinda also teaches numerous clinics at Stone Meadows throughout the year.