Raised in the rural area outside Buffalo, New York, Patti started riding at the age of seven, eventually showing in various disciplines, until she discovered dressage in her late teens.

While she taught and trained professionally for some period of time, it became apparent that a career outside of horses allowed more financial security (and that wackily practical health insurance), so her love of teaching took her in the direction of occupational safety and environmental compliance.

After meeting and marrying her husband, Richard, she began to crew for him in endurance rides, and eventually began competing herself.  Over ten years and a couple of thousand miles of competition later, she has acted as a Ride Manager for the Allegany Shut Up and Ride, and eventually chaired the AERC Ride Managers’ Committee, of which she continues to be a member.

Patti loves combining the disciplines of endurance and dressage, and observing and writing about the inside world of endurance riding competition.

She lives on a farm on a dirt road in rural western New York, with her horses, dogs, cats, various vermin and Richard.