Karry Brothers

USEF licensed WD Recorded ( r) Judge

Lauren Maddox

GVHS, GHRA,VHSA (Hunter /Jumper) ABRA,POAC, ASHA and 4-H

Schellie Blochberger

OHSA3

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.

Michelle holds a degree in Sports Management and Sport Science, which has given her a strong understanding of athletic development, performance psychology, and the principles of training—insight that she applies to both riders and their equine partners.

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