THE TEAM
Zoe Monty
Head Coach
Certified competition trainer - Cheval Québec
Liscensed Coach - Canada Équestre
DEC Equine Science Degree
10+ years of experience in the industry, with over 5 years as a coach
Experience showing
Experience breaking in and training horse with behavioural issues
Stephanie Lessard
Trainer for Solona projects
International Bromont
The provincials at Parc Équestre Blainville in Quebec
Angelstone & Palgrave in Ontario
Vermont Summer Festival in Vermont
HITS at Ocala and WEF in Wellington, Florida
Spruce Meadows in Calgary,Alberta
WEC in Ohio
Some notable achievements:
JR/Am 1.20m Champion in 2011
Matthew Molligan JR/Am 1.30m Trophy in 2012
Leading Canadian Rider in the jumper division at the Vermont Summer Festival
"NationWide Junior/Amateur 1.30 Classic" at Angelstone, finishing as Vice-Champion in the 1.30m division of the "Canadian Show Jumping Tournament" at Palgrave in 2016
Numerous top 3 placements in Florida and at Spruce Meadows.
Nathalie Macdonald Holmes
Barn Manager & Owner
Nathalie is an entrepreneur passionate about horses, with a strong background in management and sales. As a chemical engineer, she has successfully combined her technical skills with her business acumen to succeed in various projects. Her expertise in project management allows her to lead initiatives with precision and efficiency.
She designed the optimal stable for performance horses by rehabilitating old farm buildings, and completely renovating them to become a modern space. She oversaw the entire project from start to finish, including the construction of the indoor arena.
Her approach to teaching horseback riding focuses on developing a strong and respectful partnership between the horse and the rider. By respecting each other's physical and psychological limits, she encourages a harmonious and safe progression. This method allows for high-level performance, as each training session is designed to strengthen trust, understanding, and cooperation between the horse and the rider, while maintaining their well-being.
She also had the opportunity to further refine her skills and knowledge as a rider and "horsewoman" in Ontario under the guidance of James Gillam, a Grand Prix rider.
Over time, she developed a strong interest in breaking, training, and selling young horses, several of which went on to have successful careers.
Her program is primarily based on patience and the importance of having a solid groundwork foundation (TRT method), while respecting each horse's learning ability.
Laurent Cousineau
Infrastructure Manager & Owner
Horses have always been a passion for Stéphanie. It all started with her own pony in her backyard, she then progressed to compete successfully on the regional, provincial, and international circuits, winning numerous prizes on prestigious showgrounds in various divisions up to 1.40m, such as:
With her passion for performance and the well-being of horses, she offers a high-end service focused on quality and excellence. Together, she and Laurent, are committed to providing an environment conducive to amateur competition, while implementing care and services tailored to each horse.
As an amateur rider herself, she uses the program developed and offered at Solona Farms. This allows her to fully understand the needs of each client.
Laurent is at the heart of all the facilities and infrastructure at Solona Farms. Coming from an agricultural family, he has been an entrepreneur his whole life, specializing in project management and human resources.
Over the years, he has received several awards and distinctions in the agricultural field, reflecting his expertise and commitment. He won first place in the bronze, silver, and gold categories of the Agricultural Merit Order.
Laurent ensures the well-being of the horses by making sure the facilities are optimal and well-maintained.
Laurent oversees key elements to ensure the comfort and performance of our athletes. This includes various aspects such as the production and quality control of hay, comfortable facilities, well-maintained and properly drained turnout fields, and optimal footing for the practice of our sport.
Thanks to his expertise and attention to detail, he ensures that every aspect of the horses' environment is perfectly suited to their needs.
