"Nicki, I want to thank you, very sincerely, for today! That was a wonderful lesson. I have been thinking about different aspects of it, and your suggestions, throughout the day. I truly appreciate your insights and your ideas. You have a wonderful way of teaching that is very clear and motivating and reflects how much you love the horses, as well as a wonderful base of knowledge. I am very thankful for both. They inspire me. I'm looking forward to the next one." —Dr. Arsenio Paez, Jr.

About Nicki Esdorn

I grew up in Germany riding dressage. I moved to the US in my twenties where I rode Hunters and Jumpers, Cross Country, and Western. In 1994 I began riding the Icelandic horse and have specialized in this breed. Since then I have been teaching, doing demos, hunter paces, and competitions. I have travelled to Iceland many times, riding and studying with Holar teacher Helga Thoroddsen at Thingeyrar. In 2008 I received my FEIF Trainer Level 1 certification.

What I Do

When you have an Icelandic Horse you own a small piece of Iceland. They are a spirited breed and love to move—in four or even five gaits! I help my clients understand the needs of these special gaited horses, including Icelandic-appropriate horse keeping, grooming, feeding, trailering, shoeing, and tack. Training includes ground work, free longeing, double longeing, and riding both in the ring and on the trail to produce a happy, healthy horse with clear gaits.

I teach beginners and pleasure riders how to communicate safely and effectively, both from the ground and in the saddle. The best learning happens when the ride is fun for both rider and horse, so I take the lessons out on the trail as soon as possible and include playing with obstacles. Icelandic horses are social creatures and love tolting along in a group. I organize and lead trail rides like the Turkey Tolt at Rockefeller State Park Preserve and on the Bedford Riding Lanes.

When & Where

I teach and train all year long at barns in Katonah, NY and Bedford, NY and on the trails.

Why

My gelding Fengur's name means "lucky catch" or "win the lottery," and that's how I feel! I meet the nicest people, I go to fun shows with a great sense of camaraderie, I ride in demos to music and go on hunter paces with my friends. I want to share my passion for this breed and I love teaching people and animals. Every day is a good day to go riding on an Icelandic Horse!