Who We Are
Michael Mendell has competed through the CCI**** (long format) level in eventing, including spending two years training and competing in the UK, Ireland Michael—Radnorand Europe competing at CCI* through Burghley CCI**** (finishing 16th in 1998). Michael also has competed at the Grand Prix level of show jumping and in upper level dressage. In addition, he has worked with young horses extensively from their first experiences with riders onward.
Michael has trained with some of the top names in eventing, dressage and show jumping. They include: General Johnathan R. Burton, Ralph Hill, Anne Kursinski, Ian Silich, Eicke von Veltheim, Steve Kanikkeburg, Jessica Ransehousen, Jim Wofford, Lars Sederholm, Wash Bishop and Captain Mark Phillips.
In 2006, Michael took a hiatus from competitive riding and has been actively pursuing a lifelong desire to learn to fly. In 2008, Michael acquired his private pilot’s license in both single and multi-engine planes. He is continuing to work toward his instrument rating.
During this time, he has also worked diligently to create a world class facility at Wayward Springs Farm. He has overseen every building and riding arena as well as designing the overall layout of the entire farm.
Michael continues to teach students and work with our young horses on the farm. He is also polishing his grooming skills as he supports Lisa in her competitive endeavors.
Lisa Mendell has competed up to the Advanced level in Eventing and through Intermediate Dressage. She was a member of the 1999 Area II CCI* (long format) Young Rider Team (finishing 2nd in the team competition, 2nd in the YR level and 4th overall), was the Area II Preliminary Champion in 2006, and in 2008 won the Beginner Novice Horse Championships at the American Eventing Championships. In 2011, Lisa achieved her Bronze Medal and in 2018, received her Silver Medal from the United States Dressage Federation. She has also groomed at international competitions in the US and abroad.
Lisa graduated with a psychology degree from Mary Washington University in 2001. During her college years, she competed through the CCI***/Intermediate level of eventing, and was also an active member of the Difficult Run Pony Club (Virginia Region).
Today, Lisa focuses more on her dressage horses and primarily trains with Linda Zang. Some of her previous coaches include Jim Wofford, Jessica Ransehousen, Ralph Hill and Mara DePuy.
Currently, Lisa is working with and competing a talented group of dressage horses, but still greatly enjoys working with the eventing horses both on the flat and on their conditioning days.