Tenaja is a tranquil community nestled in the neighboring city of Murrieta and here you will find Kat’s Ranch where equestrian culture is alive and well. Meet the woman-owned pioneer herself, Kathleen Elliott, trailblazing the sport of dressage for future generations in the valley.
The 40-acre ranch boards over thirty-five horses and includes a dressage court, working arena, green pastures, and access to flatter trails providing horse enthusiasts an escape from bustling city life.
Kat grew up in Wildomar where she fostered her love of horses. At nine years old, her father gifted her an unbroke pony. With patience and determination, she would eventually saddle that pony giving her the confidence to continue working and training horses and riders.
With over 20 years as an equine professional trainer, Kathleen is a certified ARIA riding instructor, multi-world champion, and small r judge for the Western Dressage Association. She prides herself on providing quality training and clinics for her clients and their horses. Offering disciplines such as English, Traditional, and Western Dressage.
“I went to Canada before Western was even in California,” Kathleen said. “I was the first certified instructor in Western Dressage. It opened the doors for a lot of my clients.”
Adding to her services is working equitation, one of the fastest-growing sports, which includes obstacles and dressage that complement one another.
“Dressage is so precise, but working equitation is built upon it, so it blends seamlessly into our program,” Kat explains. “Our students are national champions in that discipline.”
Kathleen’s clients range from five to seventy-five years old. Knowing her horse’s temperaments and the client’s personality is essential when pairing the two together.
A behind-the-scenes look at Kat’s Ranch reveals the dedication required to maintain such an operation. Kathleen oversees every detail, from horse care and vaccinations to trailer maintenance and competition schedules. Rain or shine, the horses are always tended to with the utmost care.
Therapeutic horse-riding lessons are offered to riders who may benefit from equine-assisted therapy to support various physical, mental, and emotional challenges.
Balancing ranch life with family has evolved for Kathleen. With the help of a dedicated team, she can now travel for shows and clinics, sharing her expertise nationwide.
Last September Kat competed at the premier Western Dressage Association of America World Championship show in Guthrie, Oklahoma where she and her beloved American Quarter Horse LW Champagne Ice were triumphant in taking the Level 4 and 5 Championship.
Whether guiding a rider along a scenic trail or preparing a competitor for national success, Kathleen tailors training to each individual’s goals.
“As long as they’re enjoying themselves, I can adjust my client's training,” Kathleen said.
When asked what she hopes to be her legacy, “I want to be known as a good horsewoman, helping horses and riders.”
Kathleen Elliott has demonstrated throughout her career to be a trailblazer and truly embraces the equestrian lifestyle. At Kat’s Ranch, you’re family.
Kat’s Ranch at a Glance
• Location: Tenaja, Murrieta
• Specialties: Dressage, Working Equitation, Therapeutic Riding
• Trainer: Kathleen Elliott, ARIA Certified, Multi-World Champion
• Mission: Helping riders of all levels build confidence, skill, and connection with their horses.