Trainer: Melissa Moore
Length: 08:47 Minutes
As the owner/manager and head trainer of Sunrise Stables in Versailles, KY, Melissa Moore is more than just a horse trainer. In addition to turning out World and National Champion show horses and ponies, she also runs a successful breeding program which stands three stallions and cares for approximately 30 broodmares. In addition, she is known for promoting the American Saddlebred, Hackney, and Roadster horse. Melissa has developed new and innovative programs, such as The Select Series Programs, The Junior Hunter Horse Challenge and The Bluegrass Futurity, and conducted several clinics throughout the years as far away as England and Canada. She holds positions on three equestrian organization boards—the United States Equestrian Federation, American Roadster Horse and Pony Association and t American Hackney Horse Society—and sits on numerous committees for ASHBA and USEF. Melissa is Co-Chair of education for License Officials for the American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association. She also conducts numerous tours and clinics at her farm, hosting hundreds of people educating and promoting her beloved breeds to large audiences. Melissa drove one of her world champion fine harness horses in the opening ceremonies and daily breed demonstrations at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ as well as participating in The Rose Parade for the past six years, riding for Scripps Miramar Ranch from San Diego.
Melissa believes it is important to do her part to maintain the integrity of the industry through education and by serving as a judge for horse shows from coast to coast. A much sought after judge, she finds time to adjudicate approximately three to five shows a year. Melissa has judged such notable shows as the Lexington Junior League, UPHA American Royal, Morgan Grand National, Kentucky State Fair World Championships, South African National Championships, and Royal Winter Fair in Toronto to name a few. However, she believes that equally important to the strength of the industry are the small, all breeds, one day horse shows, the county fairs, and the winter tournaments she has had the opportunity to judge.
Being born into the business as the daughter of legendary Hall of Fame horse trainers Tom and Donna Moore, and sister to World Champion trainer Melinda Moore, Melissa is grateful for the opportunities and education she received from an early age. Completely dedicated and quite the perfectionist, Melissa always strives to enhance her own abilities to bring out the absolute best in her horses and riders. Over her career, she has personally accumulated over 60 Worlds Championship or Reserve World Championship titles. Additionally, Melissa has trained approximately 60 horses to World or National Championship titles for their owners. The American Saddlebred horse, Hackney, and Roadster horses are certainly in her blood, and Melissa goes out of her way to continue to promote the breed, strengthen the industry, and serve as a role model to those who admire her abilities.