About AAHJA
AAHJA is a unique and special grass roots association which operates at a local level and strives to strengthen and educate the local hunter and jumper enthusiasts. It is a place for kids and adults of all ages and abilities to come together and participate in the sport they love within their community.
For over 20 years, AAHJA has encouraged great horsemanship as well as great sportsmanship. Many members have grown up showing AAHJA and now are helping new kids learn how to compete. The life lessons these kids are learning from being a part of this association are invaluable—not only from showing, but the camaraderie and responsibility that comes with competing.
We all are competitive, but at the end of the day it’s not about what color ribbon we bring home but the memories we make, and the lessons we learn from the horses.
Mission Statement
The goal of the Athens Area Hunter-Jumper Association shall be to standardize and promote all local hunter-jumper shows and other related activities within the Athens area and to act on behalf of exhibitors, sponsors, spectators, and management.
The AAHJA is an affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation, and is therefore subject to all rules and penalties of the USEF. The AAHJA and its members are governed by current USEF rules unless these rules conflict with current AAHJA rules as described herein.
AAHJA Board Members
Allison Gresham - President
Allison Gresham is an experienced hunter/jumper trainer and coach at Brick Store Stables located in Covington. Allison’s skill for riding was greatly enhanced during her years as a Varsity Equestrian Athlete at the University of Georgia.
Peggy Allen - Vice President
Peggy is the owner/trainer at Idlewild Equestrian in Buckhead, GA. She has been an AAHJA member for over 10 years! Peggy and her daughter Carly Hunter coach the Idlewild IEA team and the IHSA team for Georgia College State University. Together they help developing riders improve their skills and enjoy healthy competition.
idlewildeq@gmail.com
Kathy Jones - Treasurer and Membership Secretary
A life-long horsewoman, I've been a professional in the Atlanta and Athens areas for over 30 years. My main focus throughout my career has been the training of young riders, teaching them to be responsible and successful horsemen in and out of the competition ring. I am also a USEF rated judge in Hunters, Equitation and Jumpers, and enjoy the unique perspective from the judges' box.
Carla Pruitt - Recording Secretary
Carla is a parent member whose rider has been riding for two years. She has an interest in learning more about all things ‘equine’ and hopes to bring a rider/parent perspective to the board. Carla is a speech pathologist by trade serving pediatrics and adults in the Oconee/Clarke County communities through her private business, JOYful Speech, LLC.. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, husband Don, daughters Parker (15), and Paydee (13), and son, Payne (7).
joyfulspeech@gmail.com
Jessica Daenen - Points Secretary
Jessica is the head hunter trainer at High Point Farm in Watkinsville. She is the head coach of the High Point/Gatewood IEA team. She lives in Winder with her husband Jordan.
Hillary Davis - Show Coordinator
Hillary is a trainer at Fawkes Farm Therapeutic Riding Center. She has grown up in AAHJA and is thrilled to be able to help spread a love for horses with new young riders.
Allie McCarthy - Board Steward
lawdiva3@gmail.com
Alex Thaxton - Web Liason
Alex is the beginner rider instructor and High Point IEA team co-coach at High Point Farm in Watkinsville. She grew up showing in the AAHJA circuit and loves teaching her students through AAHJA as well.
athaxton13hpf@gmail.com