John Whidden – He’s been around horses since he was three. While he was growing up, he dealt with a lot of “difficult” horses, especially transporting them. He went to PEI where he completed his western coaching certification. John bought and sold horses locally for many years, and today enjoys more of the recreational side to horses. While John’s position in Slate Hill Sport Horses is mainly a supporting role, he is very hands-on with the initial handling training of all the foals. It’s he who introduces the babies to the lead line and trailer. He feels it’s very important that the babies leave this farm well handled and comfortable being hauled. John is well suited to this role as he is very patient with the young horses.

Michelle Whidden – She is the classic case of the girl growing up infatuated with horses. When she was twelve, she finally got a month of riding lessons as a gift under the Christmas tree … and she’s never looked back. She traveled between Ontario and Nova Scotia working at barns and riding when and wherever possible. Initially her focus was on jumping, but when she went to New England where she completed a 4-year degree in Equine Business Management, she was quickly converted to the wonderful world of dressage. While in the States, she was fortunate to be able to work with many great trainers and learn from numerous well-run equestrian facilities. John and Michelle bought the secluded 250-acre Whidden family farm in 2006 and have been slowly returning the property to a workable farm again after it lay dormant for twelve years.

Slate Hill Sporthorse’s Philosophy - “Room to Run”

John and Michelle both feel it’s of utmost importance that sport horses are given the opportunity to develop their bone structure, muscular system, and to live in an environment where their respiratory system will be uncompromised. Living in a relatively natural setting allows the growing animals the best opportunity to set the stage for a long and healthy career in meeting their owners’ future competitive needs.