Jennifer Burk- Head Trainer and Owner
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Jennifer Burk embarked on her equestrian journey at a young age, starting at the prestigious Willow Bend Polo Club in Dallas during her preschool years. Her family's move to Fort Worth led to her mother becoming a founding member of the Fort Worth Pony Club, now known as Thundering Hooves in Weatherford. Jennifer's formative years were deeply influenced by her involvement in the Pony Club. Her passion for eventing began when she began riding under the guidance of Laura Miller, a period that lasted until the seventh grade. Subsequently, Jennifer continued her eventing pursuits with Andie Witchen throughout her high school years.
Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Science in Equestrian Science from Lake Erie College in 1995, competing in dressage up to the third level and eventing up to the preliminary level. Her expertise extends to training and showing in various equestrian disciplines, with a primary focus on eventing and dressage.
Post-graduation, Jennifer honed her skills as a trainer at prominent equestrian establishments in Ohio, Colorado, and the local area, culminating in the establishment of her own equestrian venture, Deer Creek Stables in 2004. Clients in training with Jennifer always compliment about her unique teaching style. She's begins by building confidence and skills in her riders. Jennifer sticks to the Classic Dressage principles, of rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness, and finally collection. She's a certified instructor (ICP Level 1T) recognized by the United States Eventing Association (USEA)
Jennifer's equestrian journey has involved with many notable mentors such as Elizabeth Madlener, a USEF "S" judge since 1980 and USDF "L" faculty member, and Captain Mark Phillips, a renowned figure in the equestrian world, including his role as Chef d'Equipe of the United States Eventing Team. Jennifer brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her training, having received guidance from esteemed mentors such as Don Sachey. She further enriched her skills by participating in clinics led by renowned equestrian figures, including Jimmy Wofford, Brad Cutshall, and Steffan Peters.
Currently, Jennifer continues to refine her skills under the tutelage of Hans Boone on a monthly basis. Hans Boone, a distinguished dressage rider, has garnered numerous accolades, including United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals. He has further distinguished himself by training and coaching an impressive 23 horse and rider pairs to FEI Level Competitions, earning them 19 USDF Silver Medals and 4 USDF Gold Medals.
Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Science in Equestrian Science from Lake Erie College in 1995, competing in dressage up to the third level and eventing up to the preliminary level. Her expertise extends to training and showing in various equestrian disciplines, with a primary focus on eventing and dressage.
Post-graduation, Jennifer honed her skills as a trainer at prominent equestrian establishments in Ohio, Colorado, and the local area, culminating in the establishment of her own equestrian venture, Deer Creek Stables in 2004. Clients in training with Jennifer always compliment about her unique teaching style. She's begins by building confidence and skills in her riders. Jennifer sticks to the Classic Dressage principles, of rhythm, suppleness, contact, impulsion, straightness, and finally collection. She's a certified instructor (ICP Level 1T) recognized by the United States Eventing Association (USEA)
Jennifer's equestrian journey has involved with many notable mentors such as Elizabeth Madlener, a USEF "S" judge since 1980 and USDF "L" faculty member, and Captain Mark Phillips, a renowned figure in the equestrian world, including his role as Chef d'Equipe of the United States Eventing Team. Jennifer brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her training, having received guidance from esteemed mentors such as Don Sachey. She further enriched her skills by participating in clinics led by renowned equestrian figures, including Jimmy Wofford, Brad Cutshall, and Steffan Peters.
Currently, Jennifer continues to refine her skills under the tutelage of Hans Boone on a monthly basis. Hans Boone, a distinguished dressage rider, has garnered numerous accolades, including United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals. He has further distinguished himself by training and coaching an impressive 23 horse and rider pairs to FEI Level Competitions, earning them 19 USDF Silver Medals and 4 USDF Gold Medals.
Rachel Herod- Assistant Trainer
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Rachel began her equestrian journey at the age of eight, under Jennifer's guidance during the late 1990s. Jennifer played a pivotal role in nurturing Rachel's love for Eventing. Following a brief period under Steve McGreggor at Castle Rock in Ft. Worth, TX, Rachel made the decision to join Jennifer at Deer Creek, where she has been since its establishment in 2004.
Rachel's equestrian pursuits showcase her versatility and dedication, encompassing various disciplines, including dressage, jumpers, and eventing. She has enriched her skills through clinics led by esteemed figures such as USET member Don Sachey and Grand Prix level trainer, USEF "S" and USDF "L" judge, Elizabeth Madlener. Rachel is actively working towards certification through the Instructor Certification Program and has participated in enlightening clinics with Mary D'Arcy, a Level IV ICP Instructor. Alongside her role as a Senior Lecturer at UT Arlington, Rachel remains an integral part of the Deer Creek community, serving as an instructor, trainer, competitor, and meticulous bookkeeper for DCS, embodying a multifaceted commitment to equestrian excellence and community engagement. |
Harli Dollinger- Barn Manager
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Harli realized her childhood dream of taking riding lessons and eventually owning horses after relocating from the Northeast to Texas for a job in the pharmaceutical industry. After over a decade of riding in the hunter ring, she discovered the joy of Eventing and the family atmosphere of Deer Creek Stables, moving in 2006. Harli invested in and became an instrumental figure in the establishment of Deer Creek Stables, LLC stemming from her belief in Jennifer, the care of the horses and her love of the people there. Harli assumes a pivotal role in the barn's operation, overseeing employee management, feed and nutritional needs of the horses, scheduling for farrier and veterinary services, and a multitude of other essential tasks that ensure the seamless functioning of the facility. She treats each horse as if they were her own.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Harli has also had the privilege of training with Don Sachey, Elizabeth Madlener and Hans Boone and actively participates in the competitive arena of Eventing, where she forms a dynamic partnership with her horse, Marty. |
