VLM Equestrian

11/06/2025

Today and every day, our focus is on riding from the seat, allowing the horse to naturally seek the bit without manipulation. By cultivating body awareness, riders can empower their horses to trust, soften, and relax, achieving a beautiful harmony.
Witnessing this transformation is incredibly rewarding, as riders experience 'aha' moments and horses visibly thrive in this positive, gentle approach. No matter how many times I see this it always leaves me feeling so incredibly fulfilled and excited .

08/19/2025

After having ridden for several years in my college and early adulthood years, I have had the opportunity to live my equestrian dreams again. I could not have found a better trainer and mentor! It is my great pleasure that I share my experiences with Val McCloskey.
I first worked with Val when she helped me select a horse to purchase. Val has vast and longtime connections throughout the Eastern United States, gained through her many years as a rider and trainer in the world of equestrian competition at all levels. The first thing she did was to listen to me, my goals and desires, the skills I wanted to learn. More important, she wanted to find out more about me as person, my life philosophy, my strengths and weaknesses. With that information, and over the course of several weeks, she auditioned several horses to find the right match from both a skill level and a temperament match. Thanks to her, I’ve found the perfect horse. But that was just the beginning.
Just as with how she selected a horse for me, her training methods involve a holistic approach. Every horse is different, every rider is different, and Val’s methods provide a unique and positive experience for each. She is able to observe, evaluate and combine the athletic prowess of both horse and rider with the transcendent spiritual and emotional connection that is required for a successful partnership.
Riding for me is “serious fun”. Val possesses a vast knowledge of horses, their anatomy and physique, and psychology. She is sensitive to where her students are, in both their equestrian and everyday lives, and knows how to push the right buttons for both horse and rider to excel. Yes, she teaches technique, and will always find just the right way to convey that knowledge. She also
tells you why things are working – or not – and how to guide you towards the next level. She has extensive knowledge of the physical and mental rigors behind competitive riding, and how best to support her students in their journey. She is assertive and serious in her training methods, without false flattery, but also encouraging and supportive, all to provide an incredible experience.
I feel myself fortunate beyond words to be able to continue my equestrian dream with Val. I’m sure you will too.
Sarah W. Kelly

06/13/2025

06/13/2025

My sweet boy JJ

04/28/2025

My Rich husband and I were so fortunate to work with Val for about a month this winter in Aiken. My husband purchased a new horse, Micah, last June and was making progress but realized he should seek some professional advice and training to move forward. We were so fortunate to learn that Val was in Aiken for a few months and had some time to work with us. Val has that awareness and sensitivity to read the horse and the handler. Micah is a very sensitive horse and responsive to outside stimuli. Val taught Rich how to manage his energy from controlling his approach, breathing and posturing, on the ground and in the saddle. Val’s coaching has continued to make a difference in Micah’s energy level and progress. Highly recommend Val as a trainer. She is confident yet kind and consistent in her teaching.