A University of Kentucky alumna with a degree in Equine Science and Business Management, Caitlin Halliwell is a respected figure in the equestrian community and a passionate advocate for youth development in the sport. She will enter her second season as the head coach of the Midway western program in 2025-26.
In her first season, she led the Eagles to a return trip to the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association National Championships, where they finished in sixth place. At the event, Alana Utlak was a national champion in in level-two horsemanship, while Tate Gill and Kayla Lawson were reserve champions in level-two horsemanship and team ranch riding respectively.
Originally from California's Bay Area, Halliwell began her riding journey with a focus on Hunters and Equitation before moving to Kentucky, where she cultivated her expertise in Western disciplines.
Her dedication to excellence in equestrian sports is reflected in her accomplishments and the programs she has pioneered. In 2018, she was crowned Miss Rodeo Kentucky, representing the state at rodeos and events across the nation. That same year, Halliwell established the Red Horse Rodeo Team, guiding young riders in rodeo events and fostering their growth in competitive settings. Since then, she has expanded her work, founding Red Horse Training in 2016 and introducing innovative programs aimed at cultivating skill, resilience and sportsmanship in her students.
In 2022, Halliwell made a significant impact by establishing Kentucky’s first Western Interscholastic Equestrian Team, which qualified both individual riders and her middle school team for IEA Nationals. In 2023, her adult team achieved a historic victory, capturing the title of Adult National Champion in Walk, Jog, Reserve Adult Horsemanship, alongside strong national placements in other events. With a commitment to providing more opportunities for youth riders, She expanded her program in 2024 to include the Youth Equestrian Development Association (YEDA), offering a robust training and competition environment for young equestrians across the state and beyond.
Today, Halliwell owns and operates a full-service equestrian academy at her farm in Waddy, Ky., where she delivers high-caliber instruction in Western All-Around disciplines. Her training programs emphasize a balanced approach to horsemanship, combining technical skill development with a strong foundation in the principles of Western riding.Â
