About Triple Moon Equestrian

Welcome to Triple Moon Equestrian, a community for horses and humans alike. We are dedicated to the education of our students, encompassing age-appropriate aspects of horsemanship and bringing a holistic approach to all things equine. At Triple Moon, we go beyond merely teaching riding skills; our mission is to impart the way of the horse, guiding students to explore the complex behaviors and emotions of horses.

We believe in fostering a deep respect for horses, much like the reverence one holds for the power of the ocean. Proficiency in all aspects of horsemanship is our priority before students transition to becoming strong riders. Triple Moon Equestrian stands as a pillar for inspiring mindful behavior, sustainable stewardship, and compassionate animal husbandry.

Horses, as incredible teachers, have profound lessons to offer. They live in the present, grounding us in the moment. They accept without judgment, encouraging authenticity. Through communication with their bodies, they teach us about boundaries. Working together, they teach valuable lessons about relationships. Their sensitivity teaches us empathy, and, above all, they bring an element of fun that showcases the amazing beauty of life. We prepare folks to fall in love with the world of horses, whether you're a child or an adult.

As a non-profit charity, Triple Moon Equestrian is committed to benefiting teens in our community. Those willing and dedicated to becoming stewards of horses, animals, homesteading, and the earth find a profound experience with here. By working directly with the animals and as a team, these youth gain incredible skills applicable to various facets of their lives. The result is a positive identity, newfound confidence, and the realization that they can make impactful changes in the world. Consider Triple Moon Equestrian as a gateway to personal growth, connection, and positive change.

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CAT SNAPP: Founder/Trainer/Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator 

As far back as memory serves her, Cat Snapp was utterly enamored with horses. The way the cambor of their necks effortlessly connected to strong shoulders. The shiny coats in summer, the warm smell of their bodies and the freedom that the horse represented was everything to her. From the very first minute of her first riding lesson she knew this was what she wanted to do and it ignited into an all-consuming, life long passion. 

By 11 years old, Cat had her very first horse that she cleverly talked her poor unsuspecting mother into. Suddenly, her childhood became filled with endless trail rides, sunny days spent cleaning stables, laying in the pasture grasses and the kind of unbridled freedom only a kid with horses can have.  

As an adult, Cat immersed herself in the study of classical dressage, captivated by the traditions and graceful movements of this exacting discipline. She became a life long student and teacher as a result of this beautiful art form. To this day she combines classical dressage into all her work with horses and people. Still amazed about communication with her equine partners through the subtle languages of weight, seat, hands, listening and intent.

Cat's interests expanded into the intricate traditions of bridle horses. She immersed herself in learning all that she could about this centuries-old art form, studying the nuances of training horses much like you would a dressage horse. Her roping skills came natural to her adding to her repertoire.

When she became a mom to Athena, Cat's path took a pivotal turn. Suddenly, she found herself managing a 150 acre 60-horse facility in Duvall, Washington. Not only was she teaching riding lessons and training horses, she took on the role of Vice President for HRET - an advocacy group dedicated to creating resources and knowledge for people to help horses in need.

Cat's commitment was fierce. She worked tirelessly with BLM mustangs and their adopters, helping gentle and train these beauiful icons of the American West. 

She continued to attend clinics, assisted trainers and learned from wonderful mentors and trainers. Her never ending research, reading and discussions kept her on top of new and emerging information about the health and well being of horses, brain based training techniques and equine assisted learning. From managing large facilities to training horses deemed unteachable, Cat left no stone unturned and continues this never ending deep dive daily.

In 2004, a long-held dream materialized as Cat opened her very first learning and training barn. It was here that she cultivated a wonderful community of like minded boarders and eager students dedicated to the way of the horse. It was there that she found how important it is as horse people, to have a supportive and inclusive community where one can step into complete acceptance while spending time with horses. 

Later, as a newly single mom and surviving the recession in 2008, Cat's insatiable entrepreneurial spirit took her business on an Alaskan adventure. She hit the ground running and soon it was business as usual for her to be operating a large leased facility in Wasilla's Matanuska Valley. There she refined her training skills while delving into equine nutrition and biomechanics. (Not to mention learning how to navigate the care of horses in an extremely cold environment.)

After returning to Washington in 2016, Cat and her sister Mary took an exciting leap, purchasing the property that would become Triple Moon Equestrian and home to Mary's Equine Assisted Therapy practice. 

With her PhD-level mastery and killer marketing savvy, Cat propelled Triple Moon Equestrian into a thriving equestrian hub. Cat's journey was far from over. Driven by a shared dream with her now adult daughter, Athena, she transitioned the barn operations to a non-profit. Triple Moon Equestrian is dedicated to making horses accessible to all. With unstoppable love and drive, Cat's equestrian community flourishes under Triple Moon's charitable banner.

For as long as she can move her body you will see her bringing her dreams to fruition. From property projects for the horses to planting beautiful gardens and teaching people how to help their horses. Her promise to horses has always been, to teach people to understand them and listen to them as they teach humans more then we could ever teach them. 

With every horse she comes across, she is catapulted back to the first time she fell in love with the sight of a horse. She has to pinch herself to make sure she isn't dreaming.  

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ATHENA SNAPP:                      Co-Founder/Instructor/Lesson Director

Athena Snapp's deep connection with horses has been a lifelong progression, deeply rooted in her upbringing. Her mother provided Athena with a unique and invaluable foundation in equine education. Her mother's influence, coupled with Athena's own interests set the stage for a remarkable talent to shine. 

In addition to her family's expertise, Athena had the privilege of learning from exceptional mentors and instructors who played pivotal roles in honing her horsemanship and riding skills. These influences, ranging from seasoned professionals to those with diverse riding backgrounds, contributed to the rich tapestry of Athena's equestrian knowledge.
Athena's commitment to excellence extended beyond the saddle when she took on the role of assistant for several upper level dressage trainers. She clinics with best of the best adding to her education. This hands-on experience deepened her understanding of horse care, training methodologies, and the nuances of dressage and jumping, adding layers of expertise to her already impressive repertoire.
From her early teens, Athena found herself in the role of an instructor, sharing the foundational principles of horsemanship with students. Her innate ability to perceive the nuances of horse behavior and rider interaction became a hallmark of her teaching style. Athena's approach is characterized by a deliberate and thoughtful manner, creating an environment that not only educates but also instills confidence in students.
As a testament to her skill and dedication, Athena has consistently produced solid, excellently educated students. Her teaching philosophy revolves around a slow and considerate progression, allowing both horses and students to develop at their own pace. This patient approach has cultivated a community of students who appreciate the way of the horse beyond its technical aspects.
Athena's influence extends to the widely popular Horsemanship Club Levels Classes, where she plays a central role in shaping the next generation of equestrians. Her popularity as a teacher is evident in the affectionate regard she receives from both horses and humans. Athena Snapp stands as a bright beacon in the equestrian community, embodying the essence of a skilled and compassionate instructor whose impact resonates far beyond the riding arena. 
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MARTTI STURZA: Instructor/Board of Directors
Martti Sturza's journey unfolded as an Immersion Student at Triple Moon Equestrian in 2017. What began as an introduction into the world of horses quickly transformed into a deep and lasting connection. Then began her friendship with Athena. This bond with Athena (and Cat) extended beyond friendship to family.
Martti's dedication to horses had her spending countless days and nights at the farm, forging a unique connection with the entire experience. This commitment did not go unnoticed, leading Martti to evolve from student to an invaluable teacher's assistant. Her natural affinity for instruction soon propelled her into the role of an instructor for our Farm & Pony and Horsemanship Club students, where her humor and enthusiasm makes her the favorite camp counselor among the kids.
Martti's journey toward becoming a well-rounded equestrian and teacher took a significant leap when she worked as an assistant to several upper-level dressage trainers. This experience provided her with insights into the intricacies of advanced horsemanship and dressage, contributing to her holistic understanding of the equestrian arts.
Beyond the arena, Martti's dedication extends to barn management, playing a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of Triple Moon Equestrian. Her organizational skills and commitment are integral to the smooth functioning of the barn, showcasing her incredible work ethic.
Currently residing on-site, Martti's connection with Triple Moon Equestrian goes beyond a professional capacity. Her involvement reaches new heights as she serves on the board of directors for the non-profit associated with Triple Moon. In this role, Martti contributes to the strategic decisions that shape the future of the organization, reflecting her commitment not only to the horses and students but to the overall well-being of the equestrian community at Triple Moon Equestrian.
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AMANDA CABLE: Instructor/Trainer/Board of Directors
For Amanda, horses have  always been far more than just a hobby - they spoke to her  soul. From the moment she could move around the barn as a little girl, Amanda's life revolved around these horses. They were her teachers, her confidants, her dearest friends. She was in 4H, showed in breed specific and open events. She trained ponies, foals and gave lead line lessons on her 10hh pony, Elliot.
When she reached adulthood, she began helping horses from the Yakima Rez. She helped transport horses in need and was very involved with the work it took to rescue horses.  This soon lead to her opening her own training and boarding barn. She continued her life with horses and students until a fateful barn fire that changed Amanda's life forever.
In the blink of an eye, many of her equine family were tragically taken from her by the fire. It was an unimaginable loss that shook Amanda and those who loved her to her core. After the dust settled, she needed to step back, to heal, to find herself again.
Amanda tried her best to move on by pursuing other endeavors. But you can't simply erase the thoughts of horses from someone like Amanda.  Before long, she realized she was merely going through the motions, her thoughts perpetually drifting back to that undying equine pull.
Years after the catastrophic fire, Amanda could ignore the magnetic draw no longer. She reached out to Cat, honestly expressing that she was ready to be around horses again. What started as volunteering at Triple Moon Equestrian  gradually rekindled that old familiar spark.
As she allowed herself to love them again, to breathe their earthy musk and feel their gentle warmth, the wounds began to heal. The darkness lifted. Horse ownership naturally followed, and it wasn't long before Amanda's natural talents as an instructor and trainer came flooding back tenfold.
Today, Amanda is one of the shining lights of the Triple Moon team. With a newfound tenacity and unshakable love for sharing her lifelong equine wisdom, she guides students of all ages along their own journeys. Amanda's story is a testament to the resilience of the equestrian spirit - a spirit that simply refuses to be broken.