Paige began riding at the age of 3 and had her first pony at 5. Fortune put her on the path of Classical Dressage when at 15, she crossed paths with Diana Christensen. Diana had come to Dressage through her own search for all things beautiful. She spent many years learning under the esteemed master, Nuno Olivera. Paige began studying under Diana and their friendship lasted over 25 years until Diana’s untimely death at the age of just 67. After high school, she spent time studying Dressage in France, and returned to the US to become a working student under three time Olympian, former Chef d’Equipe of the USET and “I” judge, Jessica Ransehousen. That led to an instructors’ position at Knoll Farm in Brentwood New York under Anne Gribbons, also a former USET Team member and judge. Paige has also studied under Sr. Joaquin Rodriguez of Albecete, Spain, Mmd. Caroline Collomb, of Paris, France and Upperville VA, Dr. Sherry Ackerman, Mt. Shasta, CA and Georges Malleroni, Director of the Alcainca School of Equitation in Portugal. Currently, she trains with Stephanie Collomb, herself and extremely accomplished international competitor and former member of the French National Team.
Paige became interested in saddle fitting through her own riding and in her experience teaching students. There was no denying how much the fit and function of the saddle effected the horses ability to perform at it’s peak. She apprenticed for several years and studied at the North American Saddlery School. When her husband accepted a job in St Louis, she discovered first hand the limited access riders in this area had to quality fitting services and saddles. This prompted her to start Better Balance Saddle Services, a full service fitting, flocking sales and light repair saddle company that she runs from her beautiful Grey Mane Farm just an hour form St Louis. Her location gives her easy access to the Kansas City area as well. In addition to servicing the saddles she sells, Paige offers fitting consultations and flocking of most brands. Looking to buy a new saddle, need yours repaired, or just not even sure where to start, Paige’s keen trainers eye can help you determine if your saddle is negatively effecting your horses performance, and help you find a saddle that will work for you, your horse and your budget. She is also willing to travel to southern Illinois, southern Iowa, and northern Arkansas. Please call her to discuss your individual needs.
Contact:
Paige Strait
Better Balance Saddle Services
Email: paigestrait@me.com
Tel: 1-518-321-8355
https://www.facebook.com/BetterBalanceSaddleService
