"Lisa Halterman is one of the most serious, dedicated and hardworking people I know in equestrian sports today." -Hap Hansen

With over 22 years of professional experience, Lisa Halterman has developed a solid reputation - known among equestrians of all disciplines as a first-class rider, trainer and instructor. A consummate professional, Lisa's integrity and superior work ethic have made Haven Farms the enormous success it is today.

Lisa's career with horses began as a teenager when she accepted a position as a groom for noted Grand Prix rider Hap Hansen. She fondly recalls, "I didn't even go to a horse show until I worked for Hap!" That soon changed. Hard work, long hours and constant traveling were the job requirements - difficult for sure, but Lisa managed to meet all requirements and then some. Long work hours were gratefully balanced with the opportunity to ride and learn from one of the greatest riders of the sport. During the seven years spent working for Hap, Lisa was able to develop her training skills and discover her true passion - developing talented young horses for a future career in the hunter and jumper show rings.

With seven years of intense experience under her belt and the support of Hap Hansen and other well-respected professionals, Lisa pursued her own professional career. For five years, she worked as manager for the Iverson's Eldorado 29 where she focused on starting young horses under saddle and prepping horses for the "A" circuit. Several years later, Lisa was brought in to Hidden Oaks Ranch also as manager and trainer. Although she excelled in her ability to bring along the youngsters, she also cultivated a knack for teaching juniors and amateurs.

In 1994, Lisa established Haven Farms with the vision of providing excellent hunter/jumper training and instruction in an enjoyable and relaxed environment. Haven Farms has steadily grown into one of North San Diego County's prime locations for horse sales and hunter, jumper and equitation training and is home to over sixty horses and riders of all ages and levels. Lisa has maintained a wonderful relationship with prominent breeders, trainers and owners, who regularly turn to her when they have a special hunter or jumper prospect to start or campaign. Recognizing that even professionals must constantly learn from others, Lisa regularly trains in dressage.

Lisa has experienced great success with students and horses alike. In fact, there is so much that Lisa should be proud of, and yet when asked her enthusiasm is understated. Under her guidance, riders have won numerous year-end awards, along with qualifications to the fall Indoor horse shows. In addition, she has contributed greatly to the success of numerous notable horses, including Stroke of Luck, Grand Hunter Champion at Capital Challenge, and Green Conformation Hunter Champion at Devon, South Salem and Capital Challenge.

Lisa does not like to dwell on her past achievements too much. She'd rather stay in the present by focusing on her dedicated clients and her current barn of both young and campaigned horses. She comments, "I just love to see people do well, but also to compete on their own terms." Lisa's patient teaching style combined with a unique outlook on the hunter/jumper industry have undoubtedly contributed to the positive vibe one immediately senses as you meet her and see first hand what she has created at Haven Farms. The camaraderie that exists among the many kids, adults and staff is remarkable.

Lisa oversees every aspect of the barn's operations, acting as barn manager, primary rider, trainer and teacher. She is supported by an incomparable staff that includes assistant trainer Kim Murphy and head groom Rudy Saldana. The staff prides itself on dedicated horse care, individual client attention and maintaining a sense of fun both in and out of the show ring. Lessons are taught Tuesday through Sunday with staff schooling sessions scheduled as needed during the week.

Haven Farms is currently accepting riders and horses to join their tight-knit riding community. The barn also offers a wide variety of hunters, jumpers and equitation horses for sale and lease.

Facility

Haven Farms is located in Olivenhain, California, at Willow Creek Stables. This beautiful, full service equestrian facility has proved to be an ideal learning ground for both riders and horses. Olivenhain is located in southeast Encinitas, adjacent to Rancho Santa Fe, and just minutes from North San Diego County beaches.