About Us

Established in 1988, Westar Farms is a training centre emphasizing a strong foundation for all levels of riding. Owners and managers, Jeff & Bridget McKessock bring a lifetime of experience to the industry. Whether you are new to the world of horses, already an enthusiast or a seasoned competitor, Jeff & Bridget McKessock will help you achieve your goals. With programs for beginner riders right through to national level competitors, we have something for everyone.

 

Jeff McKessock

In charge of the barn and the training, Jeff is a certified NCCP Level 3 coach with experience teaching and competing in the disciplines of Hunter/Jumper, Dressage and Eventing. Jeff’s love of horses started early in life in western rodeo games and steer riding. Lured by the excitement and challenge of 3-Day Eventing, he was able to take advantage of many opportunities including Dressage training with international coaches Cara Witham and Kirsten Blaeske, Jumper training with the likes of Ian Millar and Jeff Campf, and cross-country training with Michael Herbert and Lorraine Laframboise. His dedication paid off and he was short-listed for the 1984 3-Day Eventing Team. With this broad base of education Jeff is able to use training techniques from all disciplines to produce well rounded equestrian athletes. Committed to the growth and development of the sport, Jeff has also been involved at a national level in the development of coach education programs for the NCCP (National Coaching Certification Program). His expertise has most recently been recruited by the national sport organization Equine Canada to contribute to the Canadian Equestrian Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) framework. Jeff is also a sought after clinician for horses and riders.

Bridget McKessock

Bridget McKessock is a certified NCCP Level 2 coach. She started riding at age seven and her talent for riding ponies and horses has made her a sought after rider for many years. Thanks to the advantage of her stature she is still able to train both ponies and horses to this day! With experience in event management and business operations, as well as a Master’s degree in physiological psychology, Bridget offers a well-rounded approach to the industry. Bridget’s expertise in training horses is well-known. Her current focus is in the Hunter and Jumper area where she makes time to prepare and compete young horses for the Westar school program and for sale to competitive riders. She also teaches and coaches in the Westar programs and manages the administrative duties of running the farm. This includes planning the activities that run year round as well as managing the two large Silver and Bronze summer horse shows.

 

Karen Steadman has managed the barn and been in charge of horse care at Westar for 20 years. Her experience and knowledge are extensive and her sense of horse well-being is highly-tuned. Not only do the horses love her, but their riders are deeply respectful of her dedication and expertise.