08/05/2026
Hi everyone! My name is Juliana Klapper, and I want to share a little bit about my journey at Mountain Vista Farm.
Three years ago, right out of high school, I came to Mountain Vista Farm with the goal of broadening my equine education. At the time, I had only competed through First Level, but I was eager not only to move up the levels, but to truly understand the sport of dressage and become a more complete horsewoman.
From the moment I started training with Britta, I realized this experience would be about much more than just learning movements in the arena. I still remember one of the first things she told me: “No pressure, no diamond.” That quote has stayed with me throughout these past three years because it represents so much of what this journey has taught me. Growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone, embracing challenges, and continuing to learn.
One of the most valuable parts of training with Britta has been the depth of education she provides. She doesn’t just teach movements; she teaches you to think. We study the writings of masters of dressage and apply those principles to our riding so that we understand not only how to perform a movement, but why we are doing it. Through her, I have learned that dressage is about much more than competition, it is about communication, understanding, and developing a true connection with the horse.
Britta has also taught me to look beyond myself and see the bigger picture of the sport. My first year with her, she sent me to Germany, and that experience completely changed my perspective. Being able to see the training systems, meet people within the sport, and immerse myself in a different culture showed me that dressage is a worldwide community built on dedication, education, and a lifelong pursuit of improvement. That perspective has continued to influence me outside of the horse world as well. Britta has inspired me to study abroad in New Zealand in the spring of 2027, and I know the independence and confidence I have gained through my experiences at Mountain Vista will help prepare me for that adventure.
One of the most special parts of my journey at Mountain Vista has been the horses who have helped shape me along the way. Lala has played an incredibly important role in my development as a rider. Through our partnership, she helped me achieve my Bronze and Silver medals, but more importantly, she taught me the importance of trust, patience, and consistency. She showed me what is possible when a rider and horse truly learn to work together, and I will always be grateful for everything she has taught me.
During my second year, I purchased a young horse from Britta, and that partnership has become another defining part of my journey. Through developing him, Britta has taught me so much about starting and training young horses, creating a strong foundation, and understanding that every horse learns differently. Working with him has challenged me to become more thoughtful and intentional in my training and has given me the opportunity to grow from simply riding horses to helping develop one.
My time at Mountain Vista has also extended far beyond the saddle. I have learned about stable management, helped teach other riders, and gained a deeper appreciation for all the work that goes into creating a successful training program. These experiences have helped me become a more well-rounded horsewoman and leader.
One of the things I admire most about Britta is the way she pours herself into her students. Even while facing significant personal challenges of her own, she continued to show up for the people around her and turn her focus toward helping her students succeed. Over the past two years, three students at Mountain Vista have earned their Bronze medals, and this year alone, two riders earned their Silver medals. Watching her continue to invest in her students through everything life has brought her has been a powerful example of dedication, generosity, and resilience. She just doesn’t quit!
The past three years have brought incredible highs, but they have also challenged me in ways that have shaped who I am. I have learned the value of discipline, perseverance, and continuing to show up even when things are difficult. This summer, that dedication led to a milestone I have dreamed about for years: moving up to Prix St. Georges. More importantly, it reminded me why I fell in love with this sport and reignited my excitement for the journey ahead.
The horses, people, and community at Mountain Vista Farm have become such a meaningful part of my life. I am incredibly grateful for the support, friendship, and encouragement I have received here. Some of the people I have met through this farm have become like family, and I will always be grateful for the ways we have supported and encouraged one another.
I am currently a student at Liberty University, and while my life continues to take me in many different directions, the education I have received at Mountain Vista continues to shape the way I approach all of them. Britta has taught me to think bigger, work harder, and remain open to opportunities I never would have considered before.
Thank you, Britta, for believing in me, challenging me, teaching me, and welcoming me into your world. Thank you to the horses who have taught me more than I could ever put into words, and thank you to everyone at Mountain Vista who has been part of this journey. I am incredibly grateful for everything these past three years have given me, and I am excited to see where the next chapter leads.
