Karen McCarthy, Owner/Trainer

A lifelong equestrian, Karen McCarthy has been riding since the age of 5 in her native Ireland. She has been trained and mentored by several top-tier riders and trainers including Marion Whyte; Iris Kellett, international show jumper and trainer; John Anderson, Canadian Olympian; Andrew Davies, Great Britain team rider; and William Micklem, Irish International Event rider and trainer.

Her experience ranges from untrained “youngsters” to European Champion caliber talent. She has numerous awards and distinctions including being a three-time member of the Irish International Team. She trained and competed across North America, Europe and Australia before establishing Kilkern Farm in 2009.

Her focus and attention on each individual horse and rider gives each athlete the opportunity to achieve their innate potential. This personal philosophy is what drives every element of the Kilkern Experience. 

Marion Whyte, Training Consultant

One of the few internationally recognized coaches on the Classical Riding Club Trainers List teaching in the US and a recognized authority on talent, Marion provides consultative training at Kilkern Farm, including show preparedness and advanced technique.

Marion has been trained by some of the world’s finest equitation masters, including the famous Bert De Nemethy and Dr. Rupert, Spanish Riding School master. She has trained junior riders to European show jumping championship level and senior riders to International Grand Prix level.

She has also bred, owned and produced several international horses, including Maxime, who achieved 4th place Olympic standing for Denmark and Richmond Park, European Silver Medalist with Rodrigo Pessoa.