Val Geist started riding Western horses as a young child, and has ridden in nearly every discipline. With over 25 years experience riding, training and competing Dressage horses through the FEI levels, along with a certification in Equine Massage Therapy, Val has an eye for balance in the horse, and the correct position of the rider. She is the owner of the Whileaway Ranch, a full service boutique Dressage training facility with Saddlery headquarters slated to open in early 2023. As an active professional, Val understands the unique partnership between horse and rider, and what the saddle must achieve to provide the perfect communication. When she is not fitting saddles, Val trains her Friesian horses, including Mylo, a 10 year old gelding who loves his N2 Cardhu saddle!