Founder & Owner of Virtual Equine Events LLC
Michelle Stafford is the founder and driving force behind Virtual Equine Events LLC. A passionate horsewoman with decades of experience, Michelle began riding and competing at a very young age. Her solid foundation in Dressage set the stage for a successful Equitation career, which naturally evolved into a love for the precision and excitement of Show Jumping.
After a break from the competitive scene to raise her family, Michelle embarked on a new equestrian journey: training and gentling Mustangs. This experience gave her a renewed perspective on horsemanship and the deeper connection between horse and rider.
Through her journey, Michelle became increasingly aware of the barriers many riders face when it comes to traditional horse showing—particularly the high costs and logistical challenges. Fueled by a desire to make competition accessible to all equestrians, she founded Virtual Equine Events: a platform where riders of all levels, disciplines, and locations can compete, grow, and be recognized for their hard work.
Michelle’s mission is simple: to help riders become better horsemen and horsewomen through education, accountability, and rewarding experiences—without the pressures of in-person shows.


Michelle’s competitive highlights include:
FEI African League World Cup Competition Winner (1.50m) – Two-time champion
Central District Show Jumping Team – 1.40m
Gauteng (Provincial) Champion – 1.40m and Top-Ranked Horse & Rider
Gauteng (Provincial) Show Jumping Team – 1.30m
Pretoria International Show Champion – 1.40m
South African Young Riders Team
6 Bar Competition Champion
Northern Cape & Free State Junior Champion – 1.35m
South African Junior Show Jumping Team – 1.35m
Gauteng Junior Champion – 1.35m
Our Judges
Esther Bryce
Founder / Interior designer
Lianne Wilson
Broker
Jaden Smith
Architect
Jessica Kim
Photographer
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