California Riding Magazine • September, 2008

Stone Harbor Equestrian
John Wohr brings one-on-one
service to a public facility.

Once upon a time, every great rider and trainer had to learn the basics—heels down, thumbs up, halt, go forward and to pick up the correct diagonal. For some, those beginnings were very modest—joining Pony Club, 4-H or clinging to the mane of a parent’s horse as they tottered precariously on the saddle in front of them. Others began their careers at a young age, showing the ‘A’ circuit on gleaming ponies before they learned to walk. But, at some time and place, they all had to learn the same basics. John Wohr, trainer and owner of Stone Harbor Equestrian at Tres Palomas counts himself lucky for having been able to experience the best of both.

Growing up in Southern New Jersey, John began riding at the age of 10. An active 4-Her he says it wasn’t about the ribbons or awards, he started riding simply because he loved horses. It wasn’t until he was in his teens that John realized he could do more, and then, maybe one day, he could make a living doing what he loved, riding.
By the late 80s he was on a mission. John had qualified and competed in the Medal Finals in Harrisburg PA, the Maclay Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York and the USET Talent Search both in 1986 and 1987. The conclusion of John’s junior career led him to his most cherished riding experience.

“My time with George Morris and Jeff Cook was amazing,” says John. “The pace at which my riding improved during this time was incredible, and the example of true professionalism that George and Jeff set has stuck with me.”

When his successful career as a junior ended John quickly decided to make the big leap from amateur to professional, and he has never regretted it.

“I have always tried to live the motto, ‘Do what you love, and love what you do!’ I feel very privileged that I have had the opportunity to work and train with some of the best professionals in the sport (George Morris, Jeff Cook, Frank Madden, Richard Spooner and Linda Hough), and I have done everything from Pre Green to Grand Prix. It has given me a great insight into what it takes to succeed.”
John tries to keep things simple. When he trains or instructs, he strives to break everything down into bite size, easily digestible pieces. He prides himself on providing very personal attention and not buttonholing his horses and clients into what is currently fashionable on the circuit. “A lot of the time we get so wrapped up in training, showing and winning that we take all of the fun out of riding. As a trainer I recognize the value and the ‘need’ for keeping fun as a cornerstone for success.”

Public Facility, Personal Care

While John has now been involved in the sporthorse industry for over 25 years, he has spent the last decade, along with his former business partner Stephanie Simmonds, working with families as a private trainer. “My involvement with Stephanie Simmonds and Linda Hough in the private trainer world has been a wonderful experience. Their influence and integrity has truly polished my conduct and character as a professional. The years of showing, training and managing large private operations for two families has been invaluable. It has given me great insight into how it can be done when only the best will do.”

Part of his personal mission is to bring the level of care and attention one receives working with a “private” trainer to his public facility, Stone Harbor Equestrian. “Stone Harbor is located at a truly outstanding facility, Tres Palomas. The kind you truly don’t come across all that often. We really strive to provide an outstanding level of care, and you don’t see many grass turnouts like ours in Southern California.”

In addition to five quarter-acre grass turn-outs, Stone Harbor’s many amenities include spacious 20’ x 20’ stalls, a covered Eurosizer, an all-weather jumping arena and well-appointed grand prix field.
“Like I said, my philosophy is ‘simple.’ Work hard, care passionately for your clients and the horses in your care, and conduct yourself with the utmost honesty and integrity. If you do that, success is bound to follow."

For more information on John Wohr and Stone Harbor Equestrian visit www.stoneharborequestrian.com, e-mail jww8969@msn.com or call 925-575-0633.