WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
Welcome to our testimonial page.
Here, you will find authentic reviews and experiences shared by our students. Their valuable feedback drives us to enhance our programs and maintain an exceptional learning environment.
We appreciate your support in our continued journey.
“I was still a new rider when I attended my first Iron Rose Academy clinic—I had only taken three riding lessons beforehand.
During the clinic, I learned so much about my position in the saddle and how jockeys and exercise riders actually ride. More importantly, I gained confidence and a better understanding of the many career opportunities available within the Thoroughbred industry.
Working with Marissa was an amazing experience. What makes Iron Rose Academy different is that it’s truly open to anyone who wants to learn. Breaking into the Thoroughbred industry isn’t easy, and this program gives people an opportunity to gain real education and hands-on experience in an environment that’s welcoming and encouraging.
These clinics are unlike anything I’ve seen in this area, and I’m so glad Iron Rose Academy was created to give people the chance to learn, grow, and see if this industry is right for them. I would absolutely recommend Iron Rose Academy to anyone interested in the Thoroughbred industry.”
Marissa Chavez
Clinic Participant
If you are looking for a trainer who truly understands how to develop a horseman or horsewoman from the ground up, look no further.
As a visual, hands-on learner, her teaching style was exactly what I needed to break into and understand the racehorse industry.
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She doesn't just teach you how to ride; she teaches you the horse first. We started with the absolute essentials: understanding lameness, basic care needs, and medications.
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From there, she moved me up to ponying. This was a game-changer for me. It gave me a front-row seat to watch how the training was done, allowing me to learn about poles and speed control while actively working. When it finally came time for me to start galloping, her approach to refining my technique was incredible. She used video analysis of my rides to break down everything—showing me exactly what my body positioning looked like versus how the horse was responding. Being able to see myself on camera made all the difference in fixing my posture and understanding the mechanics of a proper gallop.
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She is the perfect balance of a great coach: tough when she needs to be to keep you safe and sharp, but incredibly motivational right when you need that boost of confidence. I couldn't have asked for a better, more thorough introduction to the industry. Highly recommended!
Halie Page
Exercise Rider
Hola, mi nombre es Juan José, y soy una persona más que se aferró a un sueño que hoy, por fin, estoy alcanzando.
Lograrlo no ha sido solo cuestión de mi propio esfuerzo; se lo debo en gran parte al apoyo, la orientación y las enseñanzas de Iron Rose Academy. Cuando llegué a la academia, mi conocimiento sobre lo que realmente significa ser un galopador era muy limitado. Aunque tuve mis primeras experiencias en mi anterior trabajo, donde aprendí lo básico, fue aquí donde descubrí más de lo que jamás imaginé.
En la academia no solo te corrigen para que hagas las cosas de la manera adecuada; también te enseñan a cuidarte para evitar caídas y, sobre todo, a proteger al ejemplar que está a tu mando. Te brindan todo lo necesario: ejercicios, prácticas y las herramientas clave para que tu desempeño sea el mejor.
Sin embargo, el trabajo no es solo de ellos. También está en uno mismo el dar el cien por ciento, el sacar lo mejor de ti y poner ese "plus" que te hará llegar lejos.
Mis progresos desde que llegué son evidentes. Cuando miro atrás y comparo lo que sabía al principio con lo que domino ahora, me doy cuenta de que he aprendido muchísimo más de lo que creía saber. Y es que Iron Rose Academy no solo te da teoría o herramientas técnicas; te contagia esa pasión profunda por los caballos, por lo que haces y por lo que vas logrando.
Esta academia es el lugar ideal para quienes aman a estos animales, pero también para todos aquellos que buscan una oportunidad real de aprender, darlo todo y alcanzar su propósito.
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Hello, my name is Juan José, and I am one more person who clung to a dream that today, finally, I am achieving.
Achieving it has not only been a matter of my own effort; I owe it largely to the support, guidance and teachings of Iron Rose Academy. When I arrived at the academy, my knowledge about what it really means to be a galloper was very limited. Although I had my first experiences in my previous job, where I learned the basics, it was here that I discovered more than I ever imagined.
In the academy they not only correct you so that you do things in the right way; they also teach you to take care of yourself to avoid falls and, above all, to protect the specimen that is in your command. They provide you with everything you need: exercises, practices and the key tools for your performance to be the best.
However, the work is not only theirs. It is also in oneself to give one hundred percent, to get the best out of you and put that "plus" that will make you go far.
My progress since I arrived is evident. When I look back and compare what I knew at the beginning with what I master now, I realize that I have learned a lot more than I thought I knew. And it is that Iron Rose Academy not only gives you theory or technical tools; you are infected with that deep passion for horses, for what you do and for what you are achieving.
This academy is the ideal place for those who love these animals, but also for all those who are looking for a real opportunity to learn, give everything and achieve their purpose.
Juan Carballo
Exercise Rider
Juan Carballo
Exercise Rider
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Amanda Poston
Apprentice Jockey
Jack Willming
Horsemanship