For over 20 years the USEA Instructors’ Certification Program (ICP) has been educating all levels of eventing instructors to confirm their knowledge base, both theoretical and practical, upon which they will continue to build throughout their teaching lifetime. The USEA is now shining the spotlight each month on some of the 300 ICP Certified Instructors. Click here to learn more about the USEA Instructors’ Certification Program.
Get to know a few of the ICP Instructors from Area X, which includes Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada.
ICP Level III certified instructor Alice Sarno teaches at her Carefree Farms in Phoenix, Arizona.
"I enjoy working with young riders and adult amateurs, bringing riders along with their own horses, as well as riders riding my school horses," Sarno shared. "My philosophy is making learning fun. Enjoy the ride, safety is very important. The learning process is different for everyone, but sound basics are a must."
Denise Krause-Spangler of DMK Performance Horses, an ICP Level I-Training certified instructor, teaches all over the state of Arizona.
"I specialize in coaching adult amateur riders looking to obtain their goal of competing at all levels of eventing," Krause-Spangler said. "My main focus is encouraging the building of a solid relationship between horse and rider. My program is tailored to meet each individual's goals while continuing to have fun and enjoy the sport of eventing."
Krause-Spangler is a dog lover too! "I have two standard poodles whom I love and adore."
Lindsay Lechner of Lechner Equestrian Services is an ICP Level I-Novice certified instructor that teaches in Santa Fe, New Mexico and the surrounding counties.
"I teach riders of all ages and love introducing them to the sport of eventing," Lechner said. "Pony Club had a huge impact on my life and also how much I value clients who want to learn and do for themselves while getting good instruction wherever they can along the way. I believe in keeping things fun and positive during all of my lessons."
"I recently bought an off-the-track Thoroughbred gelding, Rising Giant, who I call 'Vinny,'" she shared. "I am looking forward to seeing where his new career takes him!"
The Yanmar America Tryon International Spring Three-Day Event presented by Tow & Collect kicked off Thursday with dressage in the International Stadium and Rings 6/7, continuing into Friday.
Oliver Townend, who has never made any secret of his desire for another MARS Badminton Horse Trials victory, is now at the head of the leaderboard at the conclusion of the dressage phase.
Are you following along with the action from home this weekend? Or maybe you're competing at an event and need information fast. Either way, we’ve got you covered!
The United States Eventing Association, Inc. (USEA) is excited to head to Area V this Dec. 11-14 for the 2025 USEA Annual Meeting & Convention in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana! Known for its rich history, world-class jazz, and electrifying Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans will set the stage for a lively week of discussion and education on the most important topics in the sport of eventing. Gather your fellow members and meet us to celebrate the last year of success in “The Big Easy!”