Kisma Equestrian, a new premier hunter/jumper facility located near Kalamazoo, Michigan is anticipating a busy fall season. They have been hard at work converting their existing 60 acre farm into a state of the art training facility, and Wordley Martin has played an integral part in that process.
Head trainer, Erin Hughes, has known of Wordley Martin through the show circuit and by recommendations of other colleagues in the industry. She and her clients frequent HITS Balmoral, the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival, and the World Equestrian Center (Ohio) during the winter.
“For me personally, I’m always thinking about the footing. The longest lifespan that we can sustain with our horses is a priority – so we chose arena designers who truly are the top professionals in the industry, who also understand the importance of footing for the longevity of the horses.”
Erin’s clients are mainly amateur owner riders, who work very hard in their careers in order to earn their time in the tack. Their expectations are for the best care of their horses, and to train at a facility that offers top notch amenities. In speaking with Erin, she expressed that in order to produce competitive, happy horses and riders – they need to be able
to excel inside and outside the ring.
“Our clients want good care and to have fun in their training. We want to be able to harness their goals and dreams, and to make success their reality! We went with a company that knows horses & the training demands on their legs & feet.”
Erin also gave feedback that Craig was very hands on during the entire process.
“After Craig’s initial on-site visit, and prior to the install, he would FaceTime me to survey the facility, including the access for the construction entrance, the fencing and the trees in order to assess the needed to trim for the sprinkler system. Once the contractors showed up, there was already any idea on how to proceed. He would also use pictures of horses flatting and jumping so he can see hoof prints in the footing. Craig kept on top of it after the installation, to make sure the project was perfect. There was comfort in knowing that he was so hands on, specific and educated.”
Craig worked with his team to ensure the outcome of this 160′ x 220′ outdoor arena, and Erin commended the entire crew for completing the work in close to 2 weeks. Craig also helped the staff at Kisma Equestrian optimize the existing indoor arena, and educated them on the importance of proper maintenance to ensure years of exceptional footing.
We at Wordley Martin wish to thank Kisma Equestrian for their business and positive feedback. The newly renovated facility anticipates their “grand opening” to be this fall, so keep an eye on this space for more updates on the farm opening and website launch! In the mean time, we hope you enjoy some of the photos taken during the construction process in Michigan.
Backstory on the Kisma Name:
KISMA, is derived from the terms “kismet” and “charisma.” Kismet means destiny or the unfolding of a divine will, while charisma refers to a compelling attraction, one powerful enough to inspire devotion.
Information on Kisma Equestrian can be found at:
https://www.kismaequestrian.com/
https://www.instagram.com/kismaequestrian/
https://www.facebook.com/kismaequestrian/