Meet our team!
Photo by Sara Shier Photography
Kate Jutagir
Owner and Head Trainer
Growing up in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, Kate embarked on a career path steeped in tradition, respect, and the undying support of a large pool of talented professionals. Building on catch rides and project mounts, she quickly learned that the path to success is paved by hard work, determination, and a supportive community.
After her junior career, Kate went to work for two successful sales barns in the Northeast and South. After moving to the West Coast with her husband Joel, she opened Blackhound Equestrian in 2008. Originally designed to be a top-notch riding school to springboard dedicated students into careers in the industry, it has grown into a well-rounded hunter/jumper training program for all levels, from Short Stirrup to Grand Prix. She never loses sight of the path she took to get to Blackhound and Kate hopes to give back to the sport that has given her everything.
Andrea Chrzanowska
Head Rider and Traienr
Ever since she was little, Andrea has been fascinated by horses. At age 10, she began riding a family friend’s horses and learned as much as she could about horsemanship. She was eager to do everything from ranch work, horse care, and continuing her training to become a better equestrian.
After searching for an established lesson barn, she joined the Blackhound team as a working student. With the guidance of her trainers, she was able to further her education and was presented with an incredible opportunity by Head Trainer, Kate Jutagir. With Kate’s guidance, she began working with the challenging yet talented jumper Blackhound Philadelphia and this special horse has been the foundation of her career as a professional.
Andrea works to help her students achieve their personal goals, big or small, with compassion and enthusiasm. She finds her students to be incredibly inspiring and learns from them on a daily basis.
Abigail Kaster
Program Manager
Abby grew up in the Bay Area and spent her childhood riding and competing in Eventing and Pony Club. As an adult, she spent a decade studying dressage. Abby still feels like a horse crazy kid who would rather spend her days at the barn than anywhere else and she loves to share her knowledge and passion for horses with riders who are just beginning their journey.
Kalin
Program Manager
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Amy
Assistant Trainer
Our Support Team
We are honored to work with these practitioners who are an integral part of keeping our horses happy and healthy:
