Meet the Trainers at Central Florida Equestrian Center
CFEC takes pride in the talent and expertise of its trainers. With more than 50 years of combined experience in the professional equestrian world, our team brings a wealth of knowledge, skill, and passion to every lesson and competition. Riders of all ages and levels—from beginners taking their first ride to seasoned competitors preparing for the show ring—benefit from individualized instruction that encourages growth, builds confidence, and develops true horsemanship.
Riding Lessons Trainer
Claudia Heath
Claudia began her riding career as a child in Brazil, growing up on her family’s horse ranch, which remains in operation today. She started training horses and competing in horse shows in 1983, and by 1988, she was teaching lessons to students. Claudia has competed internationally, participating in horse shows in Brazil, England, and the United States.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Equine Studies from Virginia Intermont College, where she was an active member of the Intercollegiate Riding Team. She achieved both regional and Zone championships individually and competed at Nationals, where her team placed 4th in the nation. Claudia furthered her education at Bishop Barton College in England, and she continues to attend clinics, courses, and seminars to stay current with the latest equestrian techniques. In 1996, she became a professional trainer, and in 2001, Claudia and her husband, Timothy Heath, established Central Florida Equestrian Center in Apopka, Florida.
“I take great pride in my life’s work,” Claudia says. “I have treasured the guidance of outstanding trainers such as Kip Rosenthal, Eddie Federwich, Holly Hugo Vidal, Richard Watson, Philip DeVitta, and Nona Garson. My goal is to provide my students with experiences and memories they will carry throughout their lives. I maintain an exemplary safety record, and my references from the equestrian community attest to my ability as a teacher and trainer, with great care and attention to detail.”
Accomplishments at Virginia Intermont College
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1996
Horsemanship Award
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1996
Fourth Place, Intercollegiate Horse Show Nationals, Los Angeles, California
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1994-1996
Member and rider of the Virginia Intermont Intercollegiate Equestrian Team
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1994
Schooling Award, granted to the student with the most ability to ride a diversity of horses.
Claudia's Education Portfolio
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2011
USEF Hunter and Equitation Course Design Clinic with Chris Collman
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2011
USEF Jumper Course Design Clinic with Linda Allen
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2010
USHJA Trainer Symposium with Liza Towell, Missy Clark.
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2007
USHJA Trainer Symposium with Archie Cox, Missy Clark, Candice King.
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2006
USHJA Trainer Symposium with Danny Robertshaw, Karen Healey, Norman Dello Joio
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2004
Attended seminars and clinics in Sports Psychology, and in Advanced Teaching and Schooling Techniques. Held by Kip Rosenthal a PH.D. in Psychology and is a world-renowned Sports Psychologist. She is an “R” rated horse show judge. She has Judged Medal Finals, Pony Finals, and Hunter Finals across the country. Many of her articles have appeared in Practical Horseman, The Chronicle, and other Publications
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2003
Attended week-long clinics held by Eddie Federwich in Skilled Training from a Judges Point of View. Mr. Federwich is a national figure whose long and successful training career was recently honored in The Chronicle of the Horse for a lifetime of achievement and what he has meant to the horse world.
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1997
Attended courses in barn and road management, teaching, schooling, and judging techniques in dressage, combined training and show jumping - Bishop Barton College, England
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1996
Bachelors of Arts Degree in Equine Studies - Virginia Intermont College, VA.
Vaulting Trainer
Dusti Hausman
Dusti Hausman has been passionately involved in the sport of equestrian vaulting for over 20 years. Her extensive experience spans roles as a vaulter, coach, lunger, and now also a judge-in-training. Throughout her career, Dusti has achieved numerous accolades, including:
Originally from Waxhaw, North Carolina, Dusti now resides in Apopka, Florida. Her mission is to grow and promote the beautiful sport of equestrian vaulting—focusing on fun, correct technique, and safety for both athletes and horses.