Ross Kaplan
Ross Kaplan began his riding career at the age of 6 at Jamaica Bay Riding Academy. After just a few lessons Ross was hooked. At the age of 8, he began his show career in the Short Stirrup Hunter aboard "Midnight Illusion". By age 13, Ross and his trainer Wendy Kaufman were purchasing talented young prospects and training them for the hunter ring. Ross's passion later turned to the jumper ring where he successfully competed at many prestigious shows such as the Hampton Classic, Garden State, and HITS. Ross brings to his teaching passion, enthusiasm and years of knowledge built with the help of many great horsemen such as Jimmy Rice, Michael Page, Kevin Babbington and Greg Best.
Ross began his professional career in 1999 at the Thomas School of Horsemanship. In 2001, he was hired as assistant head trainer at Hartman Hill Farm. In 2004, Ross moved to Brookville, NY and opened Sagamore Hill Stables. A full service training facility, that offers professional instruction for Hunter, Jumper and Equitation riders. In 2014 Ross moved his operation to Stanhope Stables in Huntington, NY. This facility offered Sagamore Hill Stables a larger indoor riding space, improved footing in all the arenas and space for the program to grow. In 2014 and 2015 Ross coached "Virtue" and rider Elizabeth Klett to HOTY in the Childrens Hunter Horse Division, Santos Wannabee and Rider Aurelie Guss to USHJA Stirrup Cup Champion, and Carina MY Ballerina and Miranda Leibstein to USHJA Stirrup Cup Champion. Ross continues to teach at his current location and coach his students to series awards at local horse shows, tri-color ribbons at national and zone competitions and finals.