Meet our Instructors
Owner and operator of Southern Grace Farm
Karen Riding in a Parade
Karen and several members of the staff
Owner and operator of Southern Grace Farm
Karen A. Anderson, owner/instructor
A native Marylander, Karen Anderson is the owner/operator of Southern Grace Farm. Karen has over thirty years experience riding, working and breeding various breeds of horses. Karen studied equine science at Dickinson State University, North Dakota and is a Master Certified Trainer (MCT) with over 25 years experience working with and teaching children of all ages to enjoy the world of equine. Karen specializes in the Western discipline and is proficient on trails and western pleasure. Karen is the founder of Maryland High School Rodeo, Inc. and past National Director for Maryland to the National High School Rodeo Association. Karen has previously served on the board for the Southern Maryland Horse Council and Southern Maryland Trail Riders. She is an active member of the AQHA, APHA and the League of Maryland Horseman. Karen is also a past 4-H MCE volunteer and was a certified tester for the state of Maryland for levels 1 and 2 riding and knowledge abilities.
Karen can be reached at Karen@SouthernGraceFarm.com
Daughter of the owner has won many riding awards
Karen leading Shelby at a young age.
Shelby
Daughter of the owner has won many riding awards
Shelby R. Anderson Lockhart, instructor
Shelby is a 2011 graduate of La Plata High School, La Plata, MD. Shelby has over 25 years riding experience and has been teaching riding lessons at SGF for the past 10 years. Shelby holds many awards for competitions and local area events. The younger students really enjoy Shelby as their instructor and it is truly amazing to watch the young students as they progress in their riding abilities. Shelby is also a favorite of our adult riders. Shelby has a talent at putting the most apprehensive rider at ease.
One of our instructors
One of our instructors
Georgeanne Aist, instructor
Georgeanne is a Certified (CHA) Master Instructor for both English and Western disciplines. Georgeanne is skilled in training both horse and rider in dressage, hunter jumper, eventing and western pleasure. She is experienced in teaching the most timid to the advanced rider. Georgeanne worked alongside of Jim Koford (World Cup Finalist) and Joe Fargis (Gold medalist). She has sent students on to Gold Medalist and World Champion Eventer, Bruce Davidson. Georgeanne held the Head Instructor position for several Maryland equestrian centers. She is a 4th level dressage rider and competes at 4'9" jump courses. Additionally, Georgeanne is sought after for conducting clinics and often is requested for judging shows.
Samantha Arndt Belmore, instructor
Samantha Arndt Belmore is a 2012 graduate of Leonardtown High School. Sam has over 22 years of riding experience, she has participated in local horse shows. Camping with her horse and trail riding are a part of Sam's passion. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of horses with others. Sam teaches beginner English, Western/Western pleasure and Trail. She is a very easy going instructor and takes time to teach proper techniques and creates an enjoyable environment.
Jennings Anderson training one of the miniatures
Jennings Anderson training one of the miniatures
Jennings Anderson (JR), instructor
JR has over 28 years riding experience. JR's family has been involved in horse pulling competitions for over 65 years. JR's love of equine has prompted him to develop his skills in harnessing and driving pony carts. In 2019, JR began working with pulling ponies and competing at the county fair! JR is a natural teacher and the students excel in his classes. If you are interested in learning to harness and drive a buggy, JR is the man! .