Meet The North Crest Equestrian Center Team!
We bring different backgrounds to the barn, but we’re united by a shared commitment to the horses, intentional horsemanship, and a deep respect for the connection between horse and rider.
Julie Taylor
Instructor, Trainer, OwnerJulie Taylor is the owner and trainer of North Crest Equestrian Center located in Avon Lake, OH. Julie is a bronze and silver medalist in the USDF (United States Dressage Federation). She has competed successfully at Prix St. George and Intermediare I in Wellington, FL, at the prestigious Dressage at Devon show, in Regional Championships and in the Midwest. Julie Taylor has won many Horse of the Year awards in her competitive career. Julie has also started many young horses and brought them along through the levels. Julie has trained with USEF (United States Equestrian Federation) long list trainers, Michael Barisone, George Williams and Nancy Smith.
Julie spends most winters in Wellington, FL, training and showing with the best horses and riders in the country. This time in Florida also serves as "Continuing Education" with numerous seminars, clinics and ringside observation. Julie is able to bring more knowledge and training techniques back to her students.
Julie Taylor has many students who are in training with their horses and showing competitively. Julie also specializes in the "once a week" student that just wants to learn, progress and enjoy the "art of dressage". Julie's goal is to provide lessons and training for both the horse and the rider. To develop their own athletic skills and fitness levels, in a correct and safe manner, while striving to meet their own personal goals.
Julie's forte has been in working with adult amateur riders who have either full-time jobs at home or at the office. People who want some "special time for themselves" in order to relax, learn to rider better and enjoy the socialization at the barn without the pressure of having to be there everyday. It is never too late in your life to begin to enjoy riding and working around these wonderful animals!
Julie also has a special talent for training young or uneducated horses for their owners. She has trained all different breeds of horses such as Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, Arabs, Warmboods, and draft breeds to be better riding horses for their owners through understanding, cooperation and guidance. This method of schooling the horse and rider has proven to bring out the best in each partner.
Sophia
InstructorSophia was introduced to horses at an early age and began riding competitively in 2013. In 2015, she received the Tidball Legacy Scholarship, which gave her the opportunity to compete at a world-renowned facility. Since then, she has remained passionate about horses and the technical skills involved in riding. She is excited to share her knowledge and experience with the next generation of equestrians.
Alena
Alena came to North Crest in May of 2022 after graduating from Murray State University. Growing up on a farm with cows, sheep, and miniature horses, Alena knew she wanted an outdoor job working with horses. Despite knowing nothing about Dressage, the small and friendly atmosphere of North Crest held an irresistible appeal. Over the last four years, Alena has discovered a deep appreciation for the sport of Dressage. She enjoys the challenge of the mental focus needed to truly connect with your horse. In her spare time, Alena enjoys reading, counted cross stitch, and spoiling her cat.
Barn Manager
LJ
Dressage Instructor, Horse SpoilerHorses have been a lifelong passion of mine, and I love helping both horses and riders feel confident, safe, and successful. My journey with horses led me to pursue formal equestrian education in the United Kingdom, where I earned my British Horse Society (BHS) Level 1 certification.
As a dressage instructor, I enjoy working with beginner and intermediate riders, helping them build strong fundamentals, improve their confidence, and develop meaningful partnerships with their horses. My goal is to create a positive and welcoming environment where learning is both rewarding and fun.
I believe every horse has something to teach us, and every rider has the ability to grow through patience, consistency, and a genuine love of horsemanship. I'm grateful to be part of a community that shares that passion, and I look forward to helping riders reach their goals and enjoy every step of the journey.
Delaney
Assistant InstructorDelaney's love for horses began long before she could walk, and that passion has only continued to grow. Since she started riding in 2022, she has enjoyed spending as much time at the barn as possible, caring for horses, developing her riding skills, and expanding her knowledge of horsemanship.
After graduating from high school in May 2026, Delaney plans to continue her education and is currently exploring interests in both culinary arts and aviation. Outside of the barn, she enjoys cooking for family and friends and has become especially known for her delicious ice cream cakes. Her hobbies include hiking, camping, rock climbing, kayaking, and embroidery.
Whether she's in the saddle, helping around the barn, or exploring the outdoors, Delaney brings enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine love for learning to everything she does.
Theresa
Barn Maintenance & Care SpecialistMy love of horses began at the age of seven when I received my first pony, who remained part of my life until she passed away at the age of 35. As a teenager, my parents gifted me a neighboring farmer's young filly. I spent countless hours working with her, teaching her the skills needed to become a riding horse and gaining valuable experience in horsemanship along the way.
At 18, I moved away from home but continued caring for my horse. Eventually, she was sold, which was a difficult experience, but my passion for horses never faded. I began volunteering with Valley Riding's Therapeutic Program, where I found great fulfillment in helping riders and seeing the positive impact horses had on their lives.
In the early 2000s, I enrolled in horseback riding classes offered through Lorain County Community College and taught by Julie, owner of NCEC. From that point on, I became deeply involved with the farm and have continued riding there ever since. Over the years, I have helped with farm maintenance, horse care, and daily operations, building a strong connection to both the horses and the riding community.