Judy Kurilo
Judy Kurilo is a local treasure. Starting in 4H at 13, and becoming a professional at 19, Judy has spent the last 40 years teaching riders of all ages and levels. Developing the high level of skill needed for Show Horse Standards, she herself has won numerous National and Regional awards, including NCHA Cuttings, NRHA and ORHA reinings, AHSA trail competitions, dressage and jumping.
Named Best Horse Trainer by Willamette Week in “Best of Portland 2019”
”Kurilo says the mental and emotional connections between humans and horses can be life-changing”
Judy training approach is a combination of Horse Psychology, Natural Horsemanship techniques and communication skills mixed with passion and grit. These techniques can be used to go way beyond the stable helping teach patience, trust, understanding, communication and leadership skills.
“Judy is a wonderful instructor. She has been my daughter’s instructor for 2 years and we loved her from day one! We love Judy’s emphasis on making connections with horses and on safety. The barn is immaculate and land is beautiful. The horses are so well taken care of because Judy is like a horse whisperer.”
“Judy has been my trainer for almost seven years, guiding me from square one. I went from an absolute beginner, to the point where I am now a proud horse owner who competes. Judy is the BEST: Patient beyond belief, incredibly talented, full of knowledge, and always pushing me further on my horsemanship.”
“My daughter took lessons from Judy about 13 years ago and then when I got back into horses as an adult, I naturally turned to her for my own lessons and guidance. She is a hard worker and down to earth and I like that. She works with me and my fears after I had a big horse wreck and my reduced energy level due to a lifelong chronic illness. Most importantly she is a good friend and mentor and I truly appreciate her. I love Deer Park Stables too.”
“I first met Judy at age 11 when I leased her horses at Cedar Row Stables. I reconnected with her after graduate school for regular lessons 4 years ago and I am so great full for her cross discipline instructions as she has greatly improved my relationship and understanding of horses and required me to be not just an equestrian but an all around horse woman. She is kind, firm, and always willing to help.”