We are ecstatic to welcome Hannah Murphy to our team, she is our new trainer in residence. We sat down with Hannah to ask her a few questions and get to know her better!
1. What is your background with horses?
I have been training horses, providing lessons, and teaching at clinics for about 12 years now. Throughout high school and college I worked for professionals that practiced a variety of disciplines, from reining to barrel racing to dressage. I showed in a few different arenas but most enjoyed cutting and stock horses. However, my passion, above all else, is definitely starting colts!
2. Have you had much experience with mustangs?
Yes, MCR is actually the second wild horse sanctuary I have had the privilege to work with. I have also adopted from the BLM and participated in the Youth Extreme Mustang Makeover in Ft. Worth, Texas.
3. Is there anything that differentiates mustangs from other horses in your experience when it comes to training?
I think the biggest difference is that they are exceptionally observant. They notice every movement, every change of appearance, the pace at which you breathe, if your heart speeds up just a fraction - it’s amazing! It makes them incredibly honest partners but it can also build humility. You never stop learning with mustangs.
4. What has been your favorite part of working at MCR so far? Any favorite horses?
My favorite part of working at MCR is the freedom to experiment and move at the horse’s pace. We can really do what’s best for the horse, there’s no deadline and no box they have to fit in. We can explore them as individuals and create a training program custom fit their learning style and natural abilities. I really like a little guy named Chase! He’s a shy one and really challenges you to earn his trust. Once it’s given, I think he’ll be a phenomenal horse for his adopter.
5. Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I spent several years growing up in Oahu, Hawaii where there wasn’t a horse to be seen! My grandfather, a lifelong horseman, would visit and tell me about them but it wasn’t until I was 7 and we moved to be close to him in Texas that I spent any real time in the saddle.
