Ashley Kelkenberg Reining Horses

Ashley Kelkenberg: Professional Reining Horse Trainer in Scottsdale, Arizona, 15+ Years of Excellence

Experience a fresh, versatile approach to performance training with Ashley Kelkenberg, owner of Ashley Kelkenberg Performance Horses in Scottsdale, Arizona. With over 15 years of professional experience, Ashley has built a reputation for her unique ability to bridge the gap between traditional English disciplines and high-level Western performance. Known for her "soft hands" and technical precision, she specializes in creating well-rounded equine athletes that excel in reining, ranch events, and all-around performance.

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Trainer Experience

In an industry often divided by discipline, Ashley Kelkenberg stands out for her diverse foundational background. Her journey began in the Hunter/Jumper and Equitation worlds, where she developed an elite understanding of a horse's rhythm, balance, and frame.

Her transition into the Western performance industry was marked by high-level mentorship:

• Matt Mills Reining Horses: Ashley served as a key assistant to NRHA Million Dollar Rider Matt Mills. During this tenure, she successfully translated her English "feel" into the reining arena, quickly becoming a consistent winner in the Rookie Professional and Limited Open divisions.
• Versatility Specialist: Leveraging her Scottsdale base, she has expanded her program to include Ranch Riding and All-Around training, focusing on the mental adaptability of the horse.

Today, she operates her own premier training and boarding facility, Ashley Kelkenberg Performance Horses, where she combines classical horsemanship with modern performance techniques to produce horses that are as comfortable in a sliding stop as they are over a jump.

Ashley Kelkenberg’s Impressive Achievements

Ashley’s career is defined by her rapid success in the competitive Arizona reining and performance circuits:

• Cactus Reining Classic Finalist: A consistent performer at one of the "Big Four" reining events in the world.
• Rookie Professional Champion: Earned top honors in the NRHA Rookie Professional classes during her transition to full-time reining training.
• Multi-Discipline Success: Successfully trained and shown horses to top finishes in both the Hunter/Jumper and Reining arenas—a rare feat in professional horse training.
• Top 10 Finalist: Horse & Rider’s Trainer of the Year: Recognized nationally for her excellence in coaching and horse development.
• Elite "Shine Equine" Athlete: Selected as a sponsored professional for Shine Equine, representing the brand's commitment to performance and health.

Ashley Kelkenberg Performance Horses Training Program

Ashley’s philosophy, often called the "Balanced Transition" method, focuses on the physical longevity of the horse through proper biomechanics.

• Softness and Collection: Drawing from her English roots, she emphasizes a horse's "topline" and self-carriage, ensuring they use their bodies correctly to prevent injury.
• Confidence-Based Progress: Ashley is known for her patient approach, particularly with young prospects, ensuring they are mentally ready for the "pressure" of maneuvers like spins and stops.
• Non-Pro & Youth Coaching: She is a highly sought-after coach for riders looking to improve their "seat" and communication, helping them achieve a more harmonious connection with their horse.
• Comprehensive Care: Her program at the Scottsdale facility includes personalized nutrition and conditioning plans, ensuring every athlete performs at their peak.

Ready to Start Your Performance Journey? Contact Ashley Kelkenberg Today!

Phone: (602) 290-6389

Email: ashk5870@aol.com