Driving onto Hillcrest Farms for the first time was a pretty overwhelming experience. You know this is the place where legends – both horses and Champion riders - are made. There is no one that will ever compare to the Grand Matriarch of the horse world, Pam Baker. It is a daunting experience just to stand in her presence and hear what a strong working knowledge she has over every aspect of the horse. When you walk into the lounge and see the floor to ceiling walls of photos, you can’t help but think, “Will I ever measure up?” It’s all pretty awe-inspiring.

But once Pam flashes you her warming smile and you meet the “Hillcrest Family”, all the anxiety floats away. “Over the years, I’ve ridden at a bunch of different types of barns. Nothing compares to Hillcrest! This is by far the most welcoming and supportive group. Every one has a smile, seems genuinely glad to see you, and is cheering you on. I’ve never felt this kind of support! My only regret - not making the move to Hillcrest sooner.”

As a 15-year-old Leonardtown High School sophomore, Caro works hard to juggle her rigorous academics, her passion for riding, and her 2+ hour commute from Maryland to Hillcrest Farms. Caro began showing as a 7 year old lead line kid at the local 4-H show and has stair stepped her way up the show circuit ladder progressing through the local shows, VHSA/MHSA rated, and two years ago finally arriving at USEF rated shows.

Caro’s recent accomplishments include: 2005 Circuit Grand Champion, Limit Equitation at HITS Culpeper; 2006 Bryan Trophy winner at Deep Run Horse Show; second in the 2006 Maryland Horse Medal Finals; and posting high scores in 2006 at Capital Challenge in Equitation. Caro’s proudest accomplishment, qualifying her very green hunter horse, MacGyver, for the 2006 Local Day at Washington International and then leaving DC with a 3 rd place finish.

I’ve found my life long home in the horse world. My goal for my junior years, to absorb every morsel of information I possibly can from Pam and to make her proud she accepted me into the Hillcrest family.”