Avery Sutton (Owner/Head Trainer)
Avery Sutton has grown up in the Hartford County area and has been immersed in the Hunter/Jumper world for most of her life. She has successfully competed through the 3’–3’3″ Equitation and Hunters as well as the 1.0m–1.10m Jumpers with her own horse, Cas Canto, qualifying for state, regional, and national finals. Avery has earned multiple state and regional year-end awards, and in 2016, she placed 11th in the National M&S Sore No More Medal Finals.
Her love for horses and the sport began early and quickly evolved into a lifelong career. Avery worked her way up from an academy lesson student to head horse show groom, then assistant barn manager and assistant travel horse show manager, before becoming a professional rider and trainer. She has trained with and ridden under some of the most respected names in the industry, including Kevin Babbington, Don Stewart, Patti Harnois, Mike Rosser, and many others, helping her develop a solid foundation in flatwork and refine her natural feel and communication with horses.
*SafeSport Certified, USEF, USHJA, CHJA, CHSA, M&S, NEHC*
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As a dedicated equine professional, Avery enjoys every aspect of equestrian sport — from organizing events and preparing horses and riders for competition, to assisting with daily care and training. She has developed a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of equine body language, focusing on clear communication and trust to build successful partnerships both in and out of the saddle. She loves working with green and seasoned horses alike, as well as riders who need confidence-building guidance to reach their full potential.
Avery graduated from the University of Vermont in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a minor in Zoology. Her passion for veterinary medicine led her to work as a Veterinary Technician with several practices, including the Vermont Large Animal Clinic, where she served as an ICU Tech, and HB Equine Services in Connecticut.
During her college years, Avery also served as an assistant IEA coach at The Livery Horse Farm in Hinesburg, VT. Working alongside Kim Johansen from 2022–2024, she helped rehabilitate horses recovering from kissing spine surgery, supported lessons, and later took on a greater role training both horses and riders for IEA travel shows. Avery is a strong advocate for IEA/IHSA-style riding, believing in its power to expand opportunities for riders of all backgrounds. She also collaborates closely with the Granby Pony Club, often lending horses to riders who do not have their own so they can participate in educational and competitive events.
Currently, Avery manages multiple professional roles while operating her own business, Grey Jumper Enterprise. She is an integral member of the US Horse Welfare & Rescue team, where she rides, teaches lessons, and manages the academy lesson schedule for over 50 students, ensuring smooth communication and organization among instructors. In addition, Avery serves as the Head Coach for the University of Connecticut Hunt Seat Team, where she teaches over 30 lessons per week and coaches the team at IHSA competitions. She takes great pride in helping university riders grow as equestrians, achieve academic balance, and qualify for Regional and National Championships.
Avery’s philosophy centers on empathy, education, and excellence — nurturing both horses and riders to bring out their best and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the sport.
