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Meet Team Belle Wood

Our staff are here to assist and teach riding school students all about horsemanship!

A lesson staff member assists all beginner lesson students in the grooming and tacking up both before and after their lessons. Belle Wood utilizes this time to further our student's education in horsemanship and the importance of before and after care for their equine partners. 

 

Belle Wood's coaches are all licensed and registered with Equestrian Canada and are up to date on first aid.

Our range in coaches provides something for everyone from beginner riders having their first ride ever to advanced students looking to show and lease and everything in between!

Belinda Horse Showing

Belinda Logan

Coach Melanie Colwell

Melanie Colwell

Melanie started riding at a young age and was instantly in love with the sport. Mel grew up grooming on the Trillium Circuit as well as competing on her own young horse she brought along. Melanie is an EC Certified Jump Instructor and has a degree in early childhood education. Melanie coaches on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings and is responsible for booking and scheduling lessons.

Coach Ali

Ali Sponagle-Keliher

Ali has a deep passion for proper foundation both on the flat and in regards to rider's equitation. Ali believes in safety first and perfecting each step of the way before continuing onto the next.  
Ali currently coaches Belle Wood at the Beginners & Novice levels on Tuesdays.
When not at Belle Wood, you can find Ali with her gelding Tor learning and expanding on her dressage knowledge. 

Belinda is a certified Equestrian Canada Competition Coach and the owner of Belle Wood. 
She excels in the hunter, jumper, and equitation disciplines, driven by her deep passion for both good horsemanship and respect for the equestrian sport. Belinda prioritizes ongoing education and is currently enhancing her skills under the guidance of Beth Murray, Grace Waynura, and Renee Conners. Belinda is currently coaching Friday nights and Saturday Mornings. 
Belinda is usually accompanied by her three golden retrievers Daisy, Duchess and Duke who are often found greeting riders and watching lessons.

Coach Christine C.

Christine Curtain

Christine coaches on Friday mornings at Belle Wood! 
Christine started riding at the age of 8 and quickly was hooked with the sport. Throughout her teen years, Christine showed hunter/jumper divisions on the Trillium Circuit and began teaching new riders.
Christine enjoys seeing her students progress both on the flat and over fences with a strong focus on proper equitation. 
Christine believes “practice makes progress “ and looks forward to coaching for many more years to come! 

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Ande Blakley

Meet our 2025 Summer Camp Program Leader - 
Ande Blakely!

Ande participated in Belle Wood camps every summer growing up & fell more in love with horses each year! 

“I think camp is not only a great opportunity for fun, but incredible way for kids to learn skills such as independence and responsibility in a safe and supportive environment. I am looking forward to sharing my passion of horses with all the campers, and hopefully help some fall in love with horses just like I did !”

Staff - Kate Briggs Horse Showing

Kate Briggs

Our Horses

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