Testimonials

I feel very fortunate to have Val come to my farm to teach in a private lesson format and to work on our saddles. She is hardworking, honest, kind, and knowledgeable. Her love for Classical Dressage has also led me to studies in Portugal and to work with her mentor. Val lives and breathes horse; she is a cherished asset to both the rider and the horse.

Not only is Val a great Rider, Trainer, Coach and Saddle Fitter, she is a great friend. She is encouraging but honest and will tell you the truth to help you and your horse to be the best that you can be. Alisa

I started taking riding lessons with Val McCloskey in my retirement. Val is a gifted instructor. She meets me where I am in this wonderful journey. She constantly keeps me challenged and moving forward. Val stresses safety in every lesson. Each lesson builds on the ones before, improving both horse and rider. She brings in history, anatomy, and biomechanics to explain why she asks us to do something a certain way. Val brings in nationally and internationally known instructors. Such a treat for us in Central New York! Val never stops learning herself. Whether she is participating in virtual lessons, attending saddle fitting, or judging workshops, Val is constantly improving her own skills and teaching strategies. I look forward to each lesson! - Beth

Val is a truly professional and passionate horsewoman that cares for the well-being of both her horses and students. I can always trust in her vast wealth of knowledge and experience with every aspect of riding, from beginner and up, to proper tack fit, body mechanics, and horsemanship. She is a very accomplished rider and an invaluable instructor! - Kaiti

"It is honestly difficult to put into words what Val has done for me and my horse since we relocated to Whisper Wind Equestrian Centre about four months ago. She has worked nothing short of miracles on both of us. It is obviously an ongoing project; and we will forever both be works in progress. However, thus far she has made my horse so much more flexible and receptive to dressage moves, and has opened my eyes to new and vastly improved ways of riding and working with him. And he is so happy at Whisper Wind! I can't wait to experience what the future months and years bring us as we continue to learn and improve under Val's expert tutelage. I would wholeheartedly recommend Whisper Wind to anyone." - Dr. Helen J. Knowles, Associate Professor of Political Science

"Val is truly amazing in her ability to train horses and teach. She has an amazing eye for what the horse and rider need, she is able to easily break things down so both understand with a positive outcome." - Anonymous

"A horse is like a violin. First it must be tuned, and when tuned, it must be accurately played." - Anonymous

"I would highly recommend Val to anyone looking to have their horse trained. I sent my 9 year old, green broke, Shire to Val, and I couldn’t be more pleased with his progress. Val was patient with him, and taught him to be confident under saddle, which is something he was greatly lacking when he arrived. She took the time to truly get to know him, and to evaluate how he would best learn, rather than just forcing him into a set program. Val’s horse knowledge is extensive and she understands the importance of training at the pace the horse is ready for, which leads to an incredibly confident animal who is balanced, and ready, before moving onto the next step. I truly don’t think I could have a better horsewoman, trainer, or facility to send my boy to. Her facility is beautiful, the stalls large, and always clean, and she feeds high quality grain and hay. My boy is 18h and I was never worried he wasn’t getting the nutrition he needed to build muscle and stay full. I can’t recommend Val enough, and I feel blessed to have found her." - Jessica Howard and Atlas

"When my FHANA Friesian, Sybren, came "of age," I wanted him started right. I bought Sybren at the age of 4 weeks after an extensive search that took me from Canada to Kentucky. He was one of the last foals bred by the Witteveens and is out of a provisional Crown mare. (In layman's terms, he's Friesian royalty). He has been carefully raised for four long years, and I wanted him backed and trained by someone knowledgeable and patient. Obviously, I applied the same diligence in choosing a trainer that I did in choosing my colt. I wanted a trainer with Dressage expertise so he could start learning the basics of balance and flexion so important in any equine pursuit."

"Val started us with bimonthly groundwork lessons, and I then sent Sybren to her for 2 months to be started. I have been so impressed with how he is coming along I am leaving him there for the third month. She has started him slowly and gives him enough, but not too much, for his young mind and body to handle. I rode him for the first time a week ago, and I am absolutely delighted with what she has taught him so far. That's when I added that third month! The facility and care are also excellent. I have already recommended her to two friends who also have Friesians. I really can't say enough about how pleased I am with Val. Definitely the right choice." When I had to leave Val McCloskey 8 years ago to relocate, I was worried that my riding form would be forever lost. Yet, all these years- and two kids later - I got back on the horse and heard your voice in my head. "Loosen your reins, heels down, rise and fall with the leg on the wall, don't forget to breathe." I registered as a beginner- and after 20 minutes, my new trainer advised me that I was an intermediate. I can't thank you enough for the time you put in with me, Val. You are beyond exceptional - even as the voice in my head all these years later. So sweet! Thank You!" - Suzie

"I loved my lessons with Val. She was great about explaining the how’s and why’s of the concepts she teaches. We got our scores at 1st and 2nd for our bronze medal after just a few lessons with Val. We will be hopefully getting our scores at 3rd next season to complete our Bronze Medal and it is wholly due to Val’s teaching and encouragement." - Lisa Cottrell | Clingempeel

"I have recently had the pleasure of working with Val and a difficult horse of mine. I cannot say enough about the patience Val had with my mare. The endless extra help and recommendations were incredibly helpful. Val was not only talented, kind, and patient with the horse, but she works with a fabulous team of support. From her barn staff to the chiropractor, vet, and farrier she uses I never had to worry about my horse. Being that she was nearly two hour away from me and I was unable to visit on a regular basis, it was so important to have this extra support. I never had to worry, received constant updates, and between Val's talented riding and training, and the help of her team, they got to the bottom of the mares "issues." My mare is home from her training now and Val continues to check in on our progress and is always answering questions from the best bit to use to the type of feed to keep her looking great. I am so happy with my choice to send my horse to Val. The improvement to her movement, body condition, coat and overall attitude about work has improved more than I could have even hoped. It is honestly difficult to put into words what Val has done for me and my horse since we relocated to Whisper Wind Equestrian Centre about four months ago. She has worked nothing short of miracles on both of us. It is obviously an ongoing project; and we will forever both be works in progress. However, thus far she has made my horse so much more flexible and receptive to dressage moves, and has opened my eyes to new and vastly improved ways of riding and working with him. And he is so happy at Whisper Wind! I can't wait to experience what the future months and years bring us as we continue to learn and improve under Val's expert tutelage. I would wholeheartedly recommend Whisper Wind to anyone." - Dr. Helen J. Knowles | SUNY Oswego

"Val took my American Saddlebred in for dressage training for about 5 months. She started him from scratch, and I am very pleased with what she has accomplished in such a short time. I would gladly send another horse to her for training if the need arises." - Carol Quigley | Sandcastle Show Horses, LLC

"I have ridden with Valerie McCloskey for well over a decade and owe so much of my riding education to her. She is a clear, insightful instructor with a talent for recognizing what each individual horse and rider pair need to improve on. She is also a gifted trainer whose accomplishments with all breeds and types of horses are impressive. She was able to help me achieve my USDF Bronze Medal on my Haflinger mare, a difficult horse to train and compete. My current horse is a product of Val's breeding program and is a wonderful young prospect. Val's training is demanding but classically correct, and always intended to benefit the horse. I am very grateful to have had her as a trainer and mentor!" - Jasmine Wallace

"Boarding and riding at Whisper Wind have been a wonderful experience for me. Val knowledge and ability has been a great benefit to all who ride with her. She has an uncanny ability to see the areas in need of correcting and addresses these areas immediately. I never pictured myself as a horse owner, but I am thoroughly enjoying the experience. Also, the camaraderie among the boarders makes you feel right at home." - Deborah Crane

"When you hire a horse trainer you have a whole list of things that you want to see accomplished with your baby that you are entrusting them too. I have to say right now, I was a complete novice at this whole sport called Dressage. Yes, I've been in the horse show world most of my life, but not familiar with Dressage. I've always looked on admiring from a distance, but never really learning all the jargon and technique that comes along with it. It was just happenstance that I bred and raised a black colt that didn't really fit the western pleasure, hunter under saddle stereotype that I was used to in the Quarter horse world. This colt had the presence and suspension of gait and he was soft and kind. He was something special. I had taken him to a few trainers. One trainer told me awe... he's just an another black horse. The other one told me, she knew someone who wanted him for the rodeo? What!! Absolutely not!! Bringing him back home to my farm in upstate NY, I felt lost, and defeated, I knew he was talented. In what? Is what, I had to find out. In the spring of 2014, I was recommended to a Dressage trainer in Rome NY named Valerie McCloskey. A Dressage Judge I might add. I called her and described my horse and our situation and said I really had nothing to lose at this point I needed to find my horse's inner talent. Thank god she listened and believed me. She took Jacob aka/ The Ebony Empire without a picture or video just my word that he was special. That was in April by the end of June he was at his first Dressage show with Valerie and won several of his classes. That was just the beginning for him and Valerie together. They went on to win several more classes this year. I can't say enough about Valerie's experience and patience and tapping into Jacobs inner Talent and achieving it. She asks of him, and he gave her his overwhelming answer- Yes!!! Thank god! I get very emotional when I see him now. This Big, Black expressive stallion going out into the show ring and lighting it up with his beautiful dynamic lofty gaits. Valerie has done that. She with all of her passion and love for dressage. She is the reason why Jacob has excelled in Dressage, making him truly a wonderful happy show horse. Words cannot express our heartfelt appreciation & abundant recommendations. Thank you... Valerie!!!" - Garnet Holmes-Stevenson | East Aurora, New York

"We had Val McClosky, work with our 3 almost 4- year old for the month of March. She's a Friesian / Standard cross and about 16 plus hands she hadn't been on a trailer since she was young, she was too big for our trailer. Val brought her trailer up and even though it took a good hour she put her on without undo stress. The horse is an odd mixture of calmness and petrified but Val worked through it all and within a week she was on her back walk trotting in the indoor which she also had never been in. She introduced her to riding with another horse and took her out into the pasture area toward the woods without incident. She introduced her to the washing stall which took her a while to settle into. Before she came home, even though she's young, she did a little side work with her. We are pleased with her well rounded training, she did a great job with her training. She's very patience and hard working. We appreciate her work very much. She's home now and doing very well. Thank you Val!" - Scott & Cathy | Bannerview Stables

"I appreciate the wonderful job you did in getting Accolade started under saddle. I realize that she was a definite challenge, as she has a dominant attitude and displayed a complete lack of respect at times. You created a definite bond with her that allowed you to facilitate her learning experience and helped her to be a willing partner in the learning process. You did a wonderful job getting her started. Nikki also progressed extremely well under your tutelage and experience. I thank you for the professionalism and experience that you brought to both of my horse's education. Thank you!" - Donette Loitsch

"I have been with Whisper Wind Equestrian Center from day 1 and have taken riding lessons from Val even longer, since 2004. My knowledge and understanding as a rider, and subsequently as a horse owner, has grown tremendously under Val's guidance, by using the fundamentals of dressage as the foundation for all disciplines. Because she is a very capable and talented rider, Val can DO what she is teaching. I appreciate her focus on the well-being of the horses, and her straightforward feedback in helping me become a better partner with my horse." - Cheri Gaebel

"Whisper Wind is a great place to take lessons. Val and her assistant trainer are very dedicated to not only making sure their students learn but also making sure they learn with proper (riding) technique. Also, safety is a high priority at the barn, which I value highly. Because of this, I know that Val would never ask me to do anything she thought I was not ready to do." - Chau Feng Lin

"Following a friend to Whisper Wind years ago brought the childhood dreams to life. Took the anxious horse and more anxious late in life beginning rider and help them become trusting partners developing new skills and knowledge. Val's is knowledgeable skilled and always learning which she passes to us. My horse, who was timid and frightened has blossomed since being at with Whisper Wind." - S. Moss

"I have accompanied my niece in her almost 12 years of riding to many lessons and shows. In those 12 years, we have been to a total of 4 barns due to changing interests in disciplines. As anyone who has been around this lifestyle can tell you, every trainer is different and has his or her own ways. Some are great at doing… but not so great at the “teaching." Some are good at teaching kids who are fearless, but no so great working with the more careful or timid adult rider. And, some are only interested in putting their best efforts into riders that are interested in showing. I am not saying this to bash any particular barn or trainer in any way, as each of them has their good points too. My only reason for saying this is because I’ve often said, "I wish I could take bits and pieces of each barn and trainer that I like, and put them together to make the perfect barn experience." I believe I have found just that at WWEC.

I myself have been riding for just about 3 years, and have been boarding at WWEC for a year. I, and my niece, have been extremely happy here. Valerie McCloskey is by far the most versatile trainer I’ve met. She trains horses and people in many disciplines, though her specialty is dressage, of all ages and all levels of riding, as well as coaches an IEA team."

Val has an extreme amount of fantastic qualities… too numerous to count, but these are the traits that impress me the most about Val.. The single most important thing to me is: I NEVER worry about my horse being taken care of!!! He is always well fed, always watered and always has a clean stall. He has many pasture friends to run and play with and is in a large grassy pasture and gets a plenty of turnouts. If your horse has a specific need, she will do her best to accommodate that.

Val has the uncanny ability to adapt her way of teaching according to each individual student's needs. She can be teaching a 6-year old in one lesson, then turn around and have a 40-year old in the next. She is able to see what each person's needs are and is able to teach them in a way that gets through to each specific person. What makes sense to me doesn’t always make sense to my niece, but she can break it down and explain her lesson so that we BOTH leave understanding what is being said.

Val doesn’t care if you want to show or not, everyone is given the exact same effort in training. Just because I do not want to GO to the Olympics, doesn’t mean I do not want to learn to ride like I could!

Val is also able to see what each specific horse's needs are as well. Some people are only able to tell you what to do when something happens after it happens. Val has an extremely keen eye and can tell you WHY it’s happening… and in most instances, tell you what’s going to happen BEFORE it does! Whether it’s something the rider is doing (ex. the riders’ position) or something the horse itself needs work on. She is able to help you FIX the problem so it does not continue to happen not just tell you how to ride through the problem. There is no barn “drama”. Everyone there is friendly and helps each other out.

Val will tell you when you are doing something right, and not just when its wrong. She doesn’t talk down to you at all. She knows her riders abilities and knows when to push you as well as when you’re not ready for something either and will never ask you to do something she does not feel you are 100% ready for. She will never ask you to do something she herself will not or hasn’t had to do herself. This is also one of the traits I respect the most of Val. But, the trait about Val that impresses me the most is that she CONTINUES her own education. She still attends clinics herself, has recently completed the “L” program, etc. She is extremely knowledgeable, but does not pretend that there isn’t always something else to learn. This is a rare trait that many people do not have in ANY field, not just in this one! All in all, I’d have to say that I, my niece and most importantly, my horse, feel very much at home and quite content at WWEC. We have progressed and learned more in the last year here than anywhere else combined, and that’s all because of Val’s dedication!" - Monica Price

"At Whisper Wind Equestrian Center they offer a variety of different options. I love it here at Whisper Wind because everybody cares about you and your horse’s progress, especially Val. When I first came to Whisper Wind, I didn't think I was going to like it, that I wasn't ever going to get better, but with hard work and dedication, one day it all turned around for me. I always enjoy seeing Val work with the training horses, or even just her own because she is my role model and I hope that one day I will have a facility that runs as nicely as hers. I wouldn't want to train with anyone else because she puts her heart and knowledge in every lesson she teaches." - Lily

"I met Val almost 3 years ago when my then 7 yr old daughter first expressed an interest in learning how to ride horses. I had ridden off and on since I was a teenager and understood the importance of a good starting foundation to riding that prevents problems down the road. Val has proven to be just the kind of trainer that I was looking for: she is knowledgeable, yet continues to look for ways to learn and makes safety a top priority. Watching my daughter develop as a rider under Val made me decide to start riding again and I have been taking lessons with her for 1.5 years now. Through lessons with Val, I have un-learned many bad habits I had picked up over the years and I am developing into the kind of rider that I had read about, but never thought I could become myself. One thing that I really like about riding with Val is her focus on the correct movement of both the horse and rider. Fully understanding the biomechanics behind riding has not only made my daughter and me good riders but has given us the skill set to work with and improve the movement and riding of our own horse. I would highly recommend Val to anyone looking to learn, or relearn the correct way, how to be the best rider they are capable of." - Melissa Parkin Depasquale

"I would like to give my opinion on Whisper Wind Equestrian Center and Val McCloskey. We ...meaning myself and 2 horse loving daughters...have been to and boarded our horses at several horse barns. I will tell you that Whisper Wind is by far the very best of the barns. The Owner/Trainer Val is such a dynamic trainer for my youngest daughter. She pushes just hard enough and to watch and listen to her teaching is nothing short of uplifting...her heart and soul are in 100%. The care of horses at Whisper Wind is wonderful!!! Again done with heart and soul from Val. Val even helped us find a most beautiful horse for my daughter. I just love the place and respect Val for all she does. Thank you, Val." - Laurie Billings

"Val is truly amazing in her ability to train horses and teach. She has an amazing eye for what the horse and rider need, she is able to easily break things down so both understand with a positive outcome. If you have not met Val or been to whisper wind, it's truly an amazing place to learn with fun people." - Lisa Dunston

"I have been riding with Val for years, since I was about 12. I am now 24 and as you can imagine, we have experienced a lot of things together. From my first real riding lessons for learning to be a working student, to understanding how to help teach others to ride, all the way to starting my own horses Val has been there to guide me. I learned several valuable lessons, but above all she has taught me patience and how to ride horses that most people would rather not. She has taught me how to be prepared, which was never an easy task;) and allowed me to grow by taking me to several clinics and instructional lectures. I love Val and everything I have accomplished has been a direct result of her help, even when I was far from a good student. I would definitely recommend Val to anyone who is interested in continuing their riding education. I am beyond lucky to have you, thanks Val!" - Ashley Lamonica

"With a "spot on" eye and a thorough understanding of equine theory as it relates to the classical training pyramid, Valerie McCloskey has an unparalleled ability to develop programs for horse and/or rider specific to their individual needs. She incorporates the training pyramid to gymnastically develop both horse and rider regardless of their discipline. This is most evident in her equine training program. Val brings out the best in all horses she trains including my own Paragon whom she started. Now at age seven, he is training 3rd level.

As a teacher, Val believes you never stop learning. She, herself, continues to ride under well-known and respected clinicians such as George Williams, Scott Peterson, and Gary Rockwell not only for her own benefit but for that of her students as well. I did not start riding until my late 40's. I have been riding with Val for over 8 years. As my mentor, trainer and friend, she has taught me to be a "thinking" rider. Now in my 60's, I can honestly say I would be working towards my Bronze medal in Dressage had it not been for Valerie McCloskey. I only wish I had found Val sooner!!!" - Janet Stevens

"Val is a beautiful, accurate, tactful rider, and inspiring to watch. That is why her horses trust her so much." - Jo-Anne Young | Professor Houghton College

"Val’s skill in teaching riding far exceeds any other teacher I have tried. Her eye picks up the tiniest important detail, and she knows how to use her observations to remedy problems and to arrange the best sequence of challenges for the student rider.

As an adult beginner, I had tried a number of barns and instructors, but was never able to understand why I was stuck at a certain level, feeling frustrated and increasingly resigned and hopeless. Other instructors would tell me what to do, but were totally unable to help me understand where I was doing “X” when I should be doing “Y”. Val’s keen knowledge of biomechanics for both horse and rider helped me discover at long last exactly - I mean it, precisely - what the problem was, and more, she knew exercises I could do that would, and did, change it! I am no longer stuck at the same level, and am learning well and having the most satisfying fun. Heaven!

It helps that she is herself fun to work with - there is a sense of goodness to her and the whole barn. Valerie has been riding her whole life and continues to learn herself despite her standing excellence in dressage, so her depth of skill is impressive. I know I can learn from her at many levels. Her astute personal intuition and respect also help you settle into the fullest possible learning mode.

The lesson horse I ride is spirited and well trained and the barn is a good place to meet other happy riders and learn more. I am already thinking of buying my own horse and having Val train it. I look forward to many more years of increasing participation at WW." - S. Elizabeth Parlow | New York City and Verona, NY

"I would like to take this opportunity to publically thank Val McCloskey for the great training she has done with Cal. Val trained Cal from January 2015 through May 2015. I began riding Cal in late May and have only been riding him for about 3 months. Today we (Cal and I) participated in the Horsemanship class at Whisper Wind Equestrian Center. I am so proud of how well Cal performed today, even with six other horses and riders. I would have never thought that I could participate at this level so quickly.

Val thank you so much for all the work you have done with Cal and myself. I know I have a lot further to go than Cal does but I will continue to work hard. I had a lot of fun today and look forward to the next class. I cannot thank you enough for this great opportunity. My childhood dream is finally coming true and I could not be any more pleased. I began taking lessons at Whisper Wind Equestrian Center about a year ago because I had a friend who boarded her horse there wanted me to take lessons with her. At first, I had to think long and hard about this decision because although I loved horses very much I had never taken any formal lessons. I just rode! Since I am not a young chicken anymore, my fear was that others would make fun of me for not knowing how to ride properly. This fear was quickly erased as Val taught me from the very beginning the importance of having balance while riding. Although very difficult, especially for a novice rider, the Flying Eagle is one of my favorite things to do during lessons.

I could go on and on but what really captured my heart was Val’s desire for everyone to succeed. Regardless of your ability Val has a very keen eye and is very quick to pick up what the rider needs to do in order to get the proper response from the horse. Val’s wealth of knowledge is phenomenal and she shares her knowledge with every rider she teaches. She never has a student try anything she has not already done herself and yet pushes each student to their max. Val constantly communicates with her riders during lessons. It doesn’t matter if there is one student or four or five students in a lesson, she is observant of all and provides feedback to everyone equally.

Another reason I love Whisper Wind Equestrian Center is because, I truly believe Val knows exactly how to train a horse and teach people to ride properly. In December of 2014, I purchased a 4-year-old horse. Val began training him in January and by May I was able to ride him during my own lesson time. I have witnessed Val during her training lessons with my horse and cannot believe the techniques she is able to get him to perform. If you want a horse trained properly Val is surely the person to do it.

I am so pleased with everything at Whisper Wind Equestrian Center I have no desire to search elsewhere to board my horse or take lessons. Whisper Winds Equestrian Center is the place where I can forget about worldly problems and enjoy being one with my horse and other riders. Thank you, Val for all your tireless work. You are the best! Thanks for helping me to become all that I can be." - Joan Dunn

"You could not say it better Val, is beyond the best." - Judy Armando Joan

"You articulated perfectly every thought I have ever felt about Val McCloskey! The best of the best- I have yet to find a teacher/trainer that comes close since I moved. I dream of coming back, Thank you!" - Suzie Pollak Becker

"I have also had a terrific experience, and I second everything you have said! So happy to have found her and this place." - Susan B Parlow

"Whisper Win Equestrian Center Inc. is a comprehensive training facility for horse and rider. Living in the Mohawk Valley of Central New York can be challenging, trying to locate a dressage instructor. Valerie is so unique in that she owns, operates, trains, teaches and still makes time to enhance her own skill and knowledge.

I was drawn to Whisper Wind when I audited one of Valerie’s clinics. She is one of the only instructors I have met who successfully combines theory and hands-on experience. She teaches from the ground up. No two students are taught the same. As a teacher, Valerie recognizes the strength and weaknesses of each rider and their mount. Her focus is to develop each individual horse and rider to reach their maximum potential.

Valerie works very hard on her own self-development; setting an example for all of her students. The learning opportunities are endless. Whether it is during a scheduled lesson, or anytime in between, Valerie shares her knowledge. Her quest for advancement through instruction and mentoring cannot be compared to other instructions. Valerie conducts her business with professionalism as well as the passion for true horsemanship." - Marcia Buck

"For quite some time I had been searching for a barn to call home for me and my horses – Duffy and Rever. I never thought I would find a place that met all my requirements for me the rider/owner and for my horses! I was starting to give up that such a place existed.

In December 2014 I decided to start taking lessons at Whisper Winds (WW) with Valerie McCloskey (Val), after two months I knew I had found the place, this was the total package I was looking for. In March 2015 I moved my horses to WW, it was the best move I could have made. Not only were my requirements met, but as time went on, I realized they exceed what I was searching for beyond anything I could have imagined!

Val takes excellent care of all the horses in her barn. She is very observant as to what is going on with each and every one of them. You do not have a worry in the world. Your horse is in a clean and safe environment. The barn and its amenities cater to the rider and horse, with safety always being the top priority.

As an instructor, Val is extremely educated. She is constantly going to workshops and clinics to enhance herself and brings that knowledge back to her students. She loves to teach and wants you to improve. When you are not in a lesson, you hear her in your head when you are riding. I have greatly improved and look forward to continuing to learn so I am a better horse person, developing a strong relationship and partnership with my horses.

As a trainer Val is gifted! I have watched my horses transform, both physically and mentally. She instills confidence and trust. Each horse is an individual and their training program is custom made to their personality and conformation. She knows horses!

At WW I have interaction with other riders and boarders, we all share a common bond; the desire to continue our development and grow in all aspects, especially those connected to the horse. We are surrounded by constant positive reinforcement, from Val and from each other. This place has everything I could have ever hoped for and more! I have found a family here at WW, and we all support each other!" - Victoria Celia

"When I went to college, I wanted to continue riding. Growing up I had ridden mostly in the hunter / jumper ring. I felt confident in my skills and liked competing. I tried out for my college's Equestrian team and was thrilled to make it. The team practiced at Whisper Wind Equestrian Center. I will admit at first I felt a bit overwhelmed, I was hearing new things and was surprised by the details and nuances needed. I can tell you that once I was able to process and apply what I was learning my riding excelled. I found a new level of communication with my horse and a balance in the saddle which made me feel always in control and comfortable even over the biggest jumps. In the past falling off was considered “normal" part of jumping but now with my new found balance this was not happening. A lot of our lessons focused on flat work and developing the horses mind and body as well as the riders. Our Equestrian Team did amazing under Val's guidance and Instruction, and we made huge advancements in our placing a both individually and as a team.

I am so truly grateful for my 4 years at Whisper Wind with Val and for her dedication and passion for teaching and training. I have used everything I learned now when I ride every horse and what a difference. Thank you, Val for helping me to become the rider I always wanted to be and for never give up. When I was searching for my new horse, Val understood my need for great temperament and character. I am thrilled with Beowulff WW that she bred and gave such a great start. Having seen Val at shows over the years, I relied on her judgment and training. We're looking forward to a great career together.

I have learned more about the complexities of riding well in my four years with Val than I have anywhere else. Val is an insistent instructor, but a patient one, taking all my mid-lesson questions and queries in stride, in order to make sure that I am conscious of the things I’m asking the horse for, the reason I am asking, and the way everything should look and feel once the horse responds correctly. Val’s teaching philosophy is distinctly informed by her belief in the partnership between horse and rider, a relationship built on mutual respect, trust and curiosity." - Hannah | Hamilton College

"I just started riding with Val about 7 months ago, and I am so so happy I did. She is an amazing horsewoman, who is extremely knowledgeable and knows what is best for her horses. The horses she works with are always very well behaved, and she does not let them develop any bad habits or behaviors. Her riding is amazing, as is her teaching. She has helped me learn to ride in the most effective and correct way possible, and I really enjoy my lessons. She is a great woman and a very skillful trainer and rider!!!" - Lola Keane

"Do you want one of the top-notch training facilities? The nicest horses, and boarders on the face of the planet? Look no further. Val McCloskey at whisper wind equestrian center is the most qualified, and determined trainers I know. The horses come first. She loves these horses more than anything, perhaps life itself. The knowledge she instills in her students is firm and fair all while the students can learn and grow to any level of riding. This kick-ass facility will be a part of my life, even after I am too old to walk, as will every horse, and every person I've met. 5/5 for whisper wind." - Danny Scavone

"I honestly feel as though this is the best place I could've put my horse! Valerie is super skillful super knowledgeable and super willing to work with any issue. Great training for the horse and great training for the writer! Thank you, Valerie! Everyone here is so welcoming and friendly right from the start! You can tell Valerie is Passionate about the horses well-being as well as her clients! There is always something new to learn that Whisper Wind even for the experienced horse person!" - Rebecca Missig

"I currently have my BLM Mustang in for "refresher" training. He has been on a long vacation. She is doing a great job with him. Groundwork, roundpen, arena, trails. Nice quiet place, no drama, good people, and my horse is well cared for. Another bonus for me is the barn is close to home. I go visit every day and I see Val work very hard." - Susan Whalen

"Beautiful facility, professional set up and run with an easy going - accepting atmosphere. Great place for anyone to ride. Val is awesome working with anyone on any issues. She's helped me overcome fears and worked wonders with my horse. This is the place to go." - Rebecca Darling

"I've been riding here for almost two years and I could not ask for a better trainer, Val puts her all into everything she does and it is very easy to see that. Whisper Wind has a very welcoming and friendly barn family and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a place to board or ride!" - Nicole Joans

"Whisper Wind is Val's heart, her soul, her life passion and she has achieved more than one could ever wish. It certainly was no walk in the park..This came to be from extremely hard work, determination and knowledge, she always strives to learn all that can be, in her training as well as her instruction . She has a such talent and drive and uses it to help not only the rider but also the horse to correctly ride for health as well as safety.

I can say I have had the pleasure of Val's instruction for myself along with my daughter many years ago and now also my granddaughter, One of the things I have always loved the most is observing Val's lessons, especially watching a child, or adult have that moment - that moment when it just clicks.. just like that it all comes together, they get it and you can tell they get it ... that realization is just so amazing

When I turned 60 years old, my husband asked me what items were on my “bucket list”. The first thing without hesitation was to take riding lessons. We saw an ad in the local newspaper for riding lessons and got started. My husband and I both took lessons and we were hooked on being around and riding horses. We decided to purchase two horses and boarded our horses for over 2 years at that small farm. After two years, we decided to upgrade our riding skills by moving to Whisper Wind where we could receive a higher caliber of training for both our horses and us. Val welcomed us with “open arms”. Right away, we knew this was the place where could learn to become better riders. Everyone was so friendly and was willing to assist us in settling our horses in or answering any concerns we had.

We're going on three years at Whisper Wind where we have become much better riders. It is probably one of the smartest moves we have made. Our horses are very happy and so are we. We feel comfortable going on vacation and leaving our horses under Val’s care. We know that Val will give them whatever is needed and if we don't have pour own supplies / medications on hand, she willingly uses her own for the sake and well being of our horses. Val is devoted and meticulous about making sure all her animals under her care have what they need even if it means she has to provide it at times. She is probably one of the hardest workers we have ever met always attending to the care and needs of us equine and human alike. We are not just boarders, we are a team and Val is our leader! We all have very high admiration and trust in Val. Her priority is for our safety, comfort and making sure we are riding the proper way for our own physical well being and especially for our horses.

My husband and I are pleasure western riders and fit in with the rest of the other styles. What makes us happy? All we have to do is walk into the barn and see everyone, especially Val. Val goes above and beyond for her clients. She not only gives the best care for our horses, but to us also. We are so very fortunate to find Val and the other boarders, now our good friends, and now our extended family." - Beth Jones

"I first met Val during a conference call with my former college professor/ head of an equine program. Although I had not met her in person , just from hearing her speak on the phone , we shared a lot of the same views. I am a KWPN breeder and usually sell all of my horses before they are year old, however I ended up keeping a very special one that was coming five. As it came time to look for a trainer, I searched and searched, as I am very particular. I remembered my phone conversations with Val and decided to contact her to see if she would start a young horse. I had been to her place once before to purchase a horse for student, but I was unsure if she broke horses. I already knew that the facility was well-kept and the horses seemed happy. I looked online and read some of the reviews about the care and decided that this would be a good place for my horse. My horse stayed with Val for three months and learned more than I could have hoped. He entered knowing little to nothing, only being saddled and lunged a handful of times, but never backed. I was very happy with the end result in his training stay. Val was kind enough to give me a lesson on him before we left, so that I could continue his training at home until he was sold. I would recommend Val for anyone looking to start a young horse properly and also for instruction. The lesson she gave me on my young horse was wonderful and lots of fun." - Renee Petruzzelli

"Val McCloskey is well known in these parts for understanding the horse; she knows foals through old aged horses. But she’s best known for dressage training both horse and rider. A really nice feature that Val possesses is bravery, since she doesn’t abandon us when the weather gets rough; she does not go to Florida as so many other trainers do. You can count on her for horse training and lessons throughout the Fall, Winter, and Spring months. Also, many folks that board with her have a friendly attitude with social events throughout the year that all are invited to. Val is active when communicating about events, your horse, and your lessons. She posts pictures, videos, and feels free to message you with important information.

When I first delivered to Val my five year old Friesian gelding named, “Nicodemus,” who was born to a mare bred on my farm, I was nervous. Even though I knew I was fortunate to have a spot in her training facility; I was still nervous. I’d been disappointed in the past by another fa-mous trainer. I’d had excellent ones as well, but still, I remained cautious. Val put all my worries to rest, always handling my concerns with knowledge, kindness and respect. As for the handling of my Friesian “treasure,” she has done more than I could have asked for or imagined.

During my first few visits my jaw would drop; he had become the gorgeous moving Friesian I’d seen in the movies! My baby had grown into a powerful individual. Every time I visited he took “leaps and bounds” in his learning (he even jumps fences, and quite well.) She had spent hours in the deep winter snow covering trails with him alone. This taught him independence as well as gave him great stamina that Friesians are not famous for. On those winter trails he also learned to lift his legs and use his body in the natural way that a horse should learn.

Over the five months she has had him, when I merely expected him to be started under saddle, I have been impressed with the vast amount of training Nicodemus has received. Not only has he been trained the basics of handling a saddle and rider but also the understanding and execu-tion of dressage movements with his massive body, that I thought only advanced horses would know. As for me, I thought I knew how to ride and I did, but certainly not properly, as I now real-ize. I never had a horse that was trained like this, with the type of dressage foundation that would allow him to excel in dressage with less correction and effort. Now, this horse, my horse that Val has prepared for me, is ready to launch into a successful dressage career, albeit driven dressage, with a solid foundation. He has great strength and understanding of how to use his body properly. It was five months very well spent for both my horse and myself. So I can with my personal experience, highly recommend, Valorie McCloskey as a dressage trainer and knowledgeable friend of both dressage horse and rider.

Absolutely amazing facility run by an equally amazing horsewoman. Gorgeous indoor, heated viewing area, and friendly, zero-drama people. Could not have asked for a better place to board my horse while I lived in Rome, both of us grew tremendously while training with Val. Even when I was working through health issues and unable to make it out frequently, I knew my horse was well cared for." - Owner & breeder of KWPN sport horses at Legacy Crest Farm LLC Clifton Springs NY