Nicholas Villa

Nicholas Villa has spent the majority of his lifelong career with American Saddlebreds in the heart of the Bluegrass, working with the best saddle horse breeding and training programs in the world. He started in the breeding sector, under the direction of his friend Gregory Maldonado at Joan Hamilton’s renowned Kalarama Farm. Later, Nicholas was an integral part of Ruxer Farms’ award-winning breeding program in Jasper, IN. Perhaps his most memorable successes came during his long tenure with John and Renee Biggins, turning out and training such World Champions as Big Brown Bess, Gypsy Supreme and The Groomsman.

As a result of his experience at these large, world-class breeding programs, Nicholas’ particular interest is recognizing the young prospect with potential. This passion, combined with his ability to start these colts and get them in the show ring, helps ensure the continued existence of quality American Saddlebred stock.

Nicholas is thrilled to open the doors of his own facility and offer his first-rate abilities, dedication, integrity and class to American Saddlebred enthusiasts.

Sharon’s love of the horse has descended through three generations, from her family’s commitment to racing champion harness in the 1940s and ’50s to Sharon’s current dedication to the well-being of today’s competitor and rider. A New England native, she began riding Morgans at a young age, and later progressed into the world of the American Saddlebred. She has spent much of the past 18 years working at farms in the northeast and educating young riders.

Sharon holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Equine Management from Wilson College in Chambersburg, PA. She also studied hunter seat and balanced seat instruction under the guidance of several USAE internationally ranked judges and clinicians. In addition, Sharon spent many years in the corporate world with a worldwide leader in healthcare coverage, affording her a tremendous background in organization, strict business principles and the ability to balance the needs of clients with those of the corporation, keeping price and quality in mind. She will be a licensed steward in 2004 and also has several published articles to her credit in various equine media outlets.

Sharon’s strong background in equine management and modern marketing and business principles nicely complements Nicholas’ position in the barn and allows him to focus on training horses. That synergy promises to lead to the best possible outcomes for Nicholas Villa Stables.

Watch for Sharon on the road with students and her budding academy program!