Katie Bogaert

For nearly two decades, Katie Bogaert has dedicated herself to developing both horses and riders through thoughtful, progressive training rooted in classical dressage. She launched Connecticut Dressage Academy as a way to combine her passion for education with her commitment to creating a positive, horse-first environment for equestrians of all levels.

Katie’s career has been shaped by hands-on experience with a wide variety of horses — from green prospects and schoolmasters to FEI-level competitors. As a successful FEI dressage rider and professional trainer, she brings a deep understanding of the sport and an unwavering belief that every horse and rider, with the right support, can reach their full potential.

Katie’s students range from adult amateurs building confidence in the saddle to ambitious youth riders aiming for regional and national competition. Through her guidance her students have earned USDF medals, trained and develop their own horses, and solved training issues they have struggled with for years. What they share is a foundation built on correct basics, compassionate training, and a deep respect for the horse.

Dedicated to her own continuing education, Katie has trained extensively with top international coaches, earned her USDF Bronze and  Silver Medals, is aspiring for her Gold medal (almost there!), and is continually working to grow both her personal program and her team. Connecticut Dressage Academy now serves as both a training facility and a developmental hub for young talent, upper-level school horses, and a team of passionate professionals — all united under one mission: to educate riders with integrity and put the horse at the center of everything.

The Academy’s philosophy is simple — when you put in the time to do it right, the results speak for themselves. Through that approach, Katie is building not just great riders, but great horsemen and women for the next generation.

Katrina Teel

From the time she first sat on a horse at age four, Katrina Teel has been a dedicated student of horsemanship. With a strong foundation in hunter-jumper competition and a curiosity that led her across disciplines, Katrina has spent her career exploring the depth and breadth of the equestrian world — from dressage and eventing to western riding, working equitation, trail, and breed shows. Her versatile background allows her to approach each horse and rider with empathy, adaptability, and a big-picture understanding of the sport.

Katrina has had the privilege of learning from some of the industry’s most respected professionals, including Melanie Smith Taylor, Buck Brannaman, Bernie Traurig, Tom Curtin, George Morris, and Paul Cronin. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business and an Equine Studies Degree in Schooling the Horse and Rider from Sweet Briar College.

After spending five years under the mentorship of Olympic gold medalist Melanie Smith Taylor at Wildwood Farm, Katrina returned to her home state of Connecticut with a renewed passion for guiding horses and riders toward greater harmony. Her work in starting young horses, restarting off-track Thoroughbreds, and developing student programs has helped her cultivate a calm, clear, and effective teaching style.

At Connecticut Dressage Academy, Katrina brings a holistic approach to training that prioritizes communication, softness, and clarity between horse and rider. Her goal is not just to develop skilled riders, but thoughtful horsemen and women who can bridge the gaps between disciplines and create lasting partnerships with their horses. With her well-rounded experience and strong educational foundation, Katrina is an integral part of the CDA team — helping students of all backgrounds move forward with confidence and connection.

Lexie Bradley

Bio Coming Soon!