About Michaela

COMPETITOR | COACH | TRAINER

With years of dedication to the sport, Michaela exemplifies skill, passion, and unwavering commitment to the art of riding. Michaela is dedicated to precision in the saddle and a deep understanding of equine behaviour.

Growing up in the English disciplines, Michaela began working with horses at a young age. She has gained valuable years of experience with the equine athlete from the ground up through extensive involvement in her parents' sport horse breeding program.

Over her lifetime, Michaela has spent years in respected competition and training programs in a variety of disciplines including eventing, show jumping, and dressage. Michaela also spent an autumn in Europe as a working student.

Looking for a change in 2014, Michaela became involved in barrel racing and hasn’t looked back. While maintaining the classical training from the English disciplines, she trains and coaches in a method that is effective with horses of various backgrounds, resulting in a connected, balanced, happy horse that moves with lightness and ease. 

​If you require a comprehensive resume for clinics or workshops, please visit the contact page.

Philosophy

Training & Competition

I firmly hold the belief that achieving a harmonious blend of technical expertise, fluidity, intuition, and bond is key in both the training process and every facet of competition.

This principle remains paramount while ensuring each session is fulfilling for all participants involved.

Consistency in daily training is key, laying the foundation for a well-rounded program that proves advantageous for the development of both horse and rider, nurturing progress that lasts.

Coaching

I specialize in developing accomplished riders and horsemen who can self-reflect and regulate their reactions, encompassing their mind, body, and emotions, in a harmonious manner with horses.

Students are guided to acquire the skills needed to adeptly navigate various situations, be it in competitive arenas or during training sessions.

The focus lies on fostering a safe, progressive environment that proves beneficial not only to the rider but also to their equine companion.

Horse Welfare

I place significant emphasis on maintaining a delicate equilibrium between the competitive mindset essential for achieving success and prioritizing the welfare of the horse.

Central to my approach in both training and daily routines is the unwavering focus on nurturing a horse that is not only physically and mentally sound but also consistently attentive and composed.

Ultimately, my objective is to cultivate a deep bond with the horse, ensuring that they not only perform effectively but genuinely enjoy their role.

Facility

MB Sport Horses is based out of Slipstream Farm, owned by Kim and Sig Berlie. Once a Canadian Sport Horse breeding farm, it remains a private training facility although it is now a haven for barrel racing.  

Features

  • Large indoor stalls

  • Wash bay and tack room

  • Grooming and tack-up area​

  • A naturally lit indoor arena

  • Two outdoor riding areas, one with a Rocky Mountain view

  • Turnout paddocks, automatic waterers, and shelters

The History Behind the Name

The name Slipstream Farm was dually inspired by the Van Morrison song, Queen of the Slipstream, as well as an ongoing connection with aviation throughout both sides of the family, relating of course to not only the slipstream on a jet - but also that of our sport horses that can fly!

Slipstream Farm is located minutes south of Okotoks, Alberta in Foothills County on the south-eastern flank of Whiskey Hill.

This expansive landmark, Whiskey Hill, overlooks the town of Okotoks and offers a stunning contrast between the prairies to the east and the Rocky Mountains to the west. It was once an old whiskey trading post during prohibition hence the name Whiskey Hill.