Hilltop Farm's owner Jane MacElree announced that Chris Hickey, Hilltop's Director of Training for the past seven years, will not be returning to Hilltop Farm upon the conclusion of the Florida season.
"Chris has done a wonderful job in developing the horses in competition," says Jane. "I've had a lot of fun supporting him at shows in both the US and Europe and am proud of what he's accomplished with my horses."
While riding Hilltop-owned horses, Chris has won three U.S. National Championships, a reserve U.S. National Championship, gold and silver medals in the Wellington Nations Cup, and five USDF Horse of the Year titles. "I appreciate all that Chris has done for me and the farm and I wish him the best in his future endeavors," said Jane.
Chris commented, "I'm very proud to have worked for Jane and I know how lucky I was to have the opportunity to work for her! She's an amazing horse woman. I wish her, Hilltop Farm, and the wonderful staff, the best for the future."
The role of developing Hilltop's horses in sport, including the stallions Qredit and Sternlicht, will belong now to Michael Bragdell who has been at Hilltop Farm since 1995. "Michael's an incredibly talented rider who really enjoys training and showing the stallions," says Hilltop's General Manager, Natalie DiBerardinis. "Jane's enthusiasm and support for Hilltop are as strong as ever."
Photo © Mary Phelps
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