Welcome to Hope Equestrian Team!
Welcome to Hope Equestrian Team, where riders of all ages and experience levels can learn, grow, and build confidence both in and out of the saddle. Our program focuses on strong horsemanship, rider development, and creating a supportive environment where horses and riders thrive together.
about the owner at Hope Equestrian Team
Melanie Marion
Hi there, my name is Melanie Marion and I own and operate Hope Equestrian Team based in Phelpston, ON. I am a Metis, French speaking certified and insured coach. I have worked for Lindsay Beer Equestrian for many years and took on roles of barn manager, assistant rider and coach over the years. Alongside this I have also worked for Olympian, Karl Sleezak, 5* event rider, Holly Jacks and more. I have also trained Rose Red Equestrian Farms warmblood horses. Since then I have continued my training with Olympian, Jessica Phoenix, Holly Jacks, and ride dressage with Sara Alberni.
Spending winters south to continue training, offers a variety of opportunity for my clients. With my experience throughout North America, I have been able to see what my goal is to achieve with my business in Ontario. I strongly believe we need to do better by our horses. I am proud to offer what I believe is lacking in our area, bringing forward proper coaching, training, and programs to this area of Ontario.
With big goals for the future, to one day represent our country at a major games, I am committed to working hard at continuing my development as a coach and rider, to be able to teach this to the next generation of riders.
meet the staff at Hope Equestrian Team
Barn Manager
Our barn manager bio is coming soon!
Aubrey Davis
Aubrey Davis is a dedicated member of the Hope Equestrian Team and is currently pursuing a degree in Business Management & Leadership. She will be competing at Caledon Equestrian Park during the 2026 season and looks forward to continuing to be a part of the team both in and out of the ring.
Cora Spittachine
Cora Spittachine
Cora Spittachine has been an active member of Hope Equestrian Team since bringing her horse Porche in the fall of 2024. Cora and Porche look forward to showing at Hope Equestrian Events with the team this season in the upper level jumpers. Cora is starting nursing school in the fall of 2026 at Georgian College.
Meet The working students
Clara Rombough
Clara Rombough
Clara Rombough
My name is Clara, and I have been riding for almost 8 years. I started my riding journey through summer camp. I used to go every year and eventually began lessons. My favourite thing to do when riding is cross-country. I also love going on trail rides. Horses are very special animals, and I am very lucky to be able to work with and ride t
My name is Clara, and I have been riding for almost 8 years. I started my riding journey through summer camp. I used to go every year and eventually began lessons. My favourite thing to do when riding is cross-country. I also love going on trail rides. Horses are very special animals, and I am very lucky to be able to work with and ride them. I hope to get my own horse soon so I can continue my journey.
Alex Demers
Clara Rombough
Clara Rombough
Alex Demers is an active member of the barn who competes in eventing and enjoys all aspects of working with horses. She values the time spent both in and out of the saddle and is always willing to lend a hand around the barn. She looks forward to continuing to grow as a rider and being a part of the team.
Trista Lopes
Clara Rombough
Trista Lopes
Trista is an active working student at Hope Equestrian. I have ridden for about 6 years now and have grown up in Simcoe County. I rode in Hunter/Jumper discipline for 4 years, but this past year I began Eventing and have not looked back. My first core memory with horses was winning champion with my heart horse, but a close tie was this pa
Trista is an active working student at Hope Equestrian. I have ridden for about 6 years now and have grown up in Simcoe County. I rode in Hunter/Jumper discipline for 4 years, but this past year I began Eventing and have not looked back. My first core memory with horses was winning champion with my heart horse, but a close tie was this past year stepping into a new discipline.After quitting riding in 2023 and since returning in 2025, Ive been able to plan out what I want my future to look like with horses. I am forever grateful to be a member of the Hope Equestian Team and hold my position with passion and pride in what I do.
