Andrea began riding lessons at age five  She participated in United States Pony Club earning a C1 Pony Club certification. Her long hours at the barn working for lessons convinced her parents horses were not “just a phase”. With her sincerity established, she got her first horse at the age of 15. Andrea discovered the sport of eventing with a four year old Quarter Horse/Percheron mare, Chloe. This pair grew and achieved consistent top ten event placings .

Andrea graduated from Midway University with a degree in Equine Management with a focus on Equitation Instruction. While attending college Andrea worked in the Thoroughbred industry. She gained valuable knowledge in sales, training, rehabilitation of the horse, vet and emergency care and farm management. Discovering that sales and rehab were her favorite aspects of the industry, she worked for several years at an Equine Rehab center and as a Sales Coordinator for a major thoroughbred farm. She returned home to work for the family business, with a few horses in tow.

One of those horses, Frank, a difficult to handle OTTB, fortuitously caused Andrea to seek the help of the Kaisers. With their guidance Frank responded favorably to Andrea’s new communication techniques. At this point she committed to FHF internship.  Ten months later she attained her once unthinkable goal of successfully showing Frank in a dressage competition ! Andrea’s unremitting dedication and enthusiasm for showing have garnered her much success. She is now a USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold medalist and annually earn National, Regional and state titles and placings. Andrea competes a variety of horses at all levels including Grand Prix.

                                                                                                   Andrea brings a cheerful encouraging spirit to all her endeavors. She is patient, compassionate and confident. These traits are key to her abilities as a trainer, competitor, instructor and manager. Whether organizing a hectic show day’s schedule or going down the centerline in a Grand Prix test or keeping the routine flowing daily at the barn, Andrea is a hard worker who gets it done! She delights in the many challenges and her efforts are rewarded.

Phone: 765-589-3838    email: mk@forresthillfarm.com

Andrea Balas

Knowledgeable, Cheerful, Encouraging Spirit 

Trainer & Barn Management Coordinator