ANNE YOUNG, OWNER
Anne Young is the owner of Rocking J Stables and has been blessed to instruct students in the hunter and jumping disciplines since 2015. Anne grew up riding and started her formal training in 1988 in the Austin, Texas area. Her parents gifted her the beloved National Show horse, Jude, in 1995. Anne and Jude were working towards a show jumping career when Jude was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in both his front pastern joints. Faced with the choice to either sell her horse in order to purchase a different horse who could meet the physically demanding show jumping life style or keep Jude and step away from the show ring, Anne chose Jude.
For 30 years, Jude remained Anne’s best friend through every move and every life transition. Jude taught Anne so much about horse riding, the responsibility of horse ownership, and the special bond that exists between a human and a horse. Jude passed away in May of 2025 and he is still dearly missed. She treasures years of lovely memories riding together in arenas, stepping out on trails and starting a riding lesson program together. Jude is the ‘J’ in Rocking J Stables.
Anne believes riding instruction should start with a focus on horsemanship and students should be committed to improving their riding and handling skills through building a harmonious partnership with their equine. She educates riding students on the importance of the Dressage Training Scale and believes body awareness and a conscientious approach to the horse’s training and care is the key to success not only in the riding arena but also in life..
ALEXANDER HARTDEGEN, HEAD RIDING INSTRUCTOR
With 26 years in the equestrian field, Alexander N. Hartdegen began riding at the age of 10 and has developed a lifelong career rooted in both horsemanship and rider development. Over the years, he has trained and ridden across multiple disciplines, including AQHA Western Pleasure, hunters, jumpers, and fox hunting, building a well-rounded and adaptable foundation in the sport.
As his career progressed, Alexander recognized that truly effective riding comes from feel, timing, and understanding—not just technique. This philosophy became the cornerstone of his teaching approach.
He holds a Master’s degree in Neuropsychology and a Master’s degree in Behavioral Management and Education , and is currently completing his PhD in Psychology. This advanced academic background allows him to bring a unique, science-based perspective to instruction. He is highly skilled in working with a wide range of riders, from adult amateurs, beginner children, and neurodivergent learners; tailoring his approach to meet each individual’s learning style.
Alexander is deeply committed to teaching correct horsemanship both in and out of the saddle. He emphasizes that proper care, handling, and respect for the horse are just as important as riding itself, viewing horses as true equine athletes who require thoughtful, knowledgeable management.
In addition to technical skill, he places a strong emphasis on sportsmanship—encouraging riders to approach both their peers and competitors with respect, integrity, and compassion
BETHANY LYNCH, WESTERN INSTRUCTOR
Bethany Lynch is a current Agriculture Teacher and Veterinary Science Instructor who also serves as a Western riding instructor on Saturdays and Sundays. Her background with horses is both extensive and diverse, shaped by years of hands-on experience across multiple disciplines.
Bethany attended Stephen F. Austin State University, where she was an active member of the Ranch Horse Team. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and a Master’s degree in Agricultural Science, specializing in Equine Physiology and Nutrition. During her collegiate career, her team achieved an abundance of wins and buckles in Trail, Pleasure, Reining, Cutting, and Cow Work. She competed extensively throughout Texas and Louisiana in the Stock Horse of Texas, Louisiana Stock Horse Association, and Collegiate Ranch Horse circuits, gaining valuable experience in both team-based competition and individual performance.
Throughout her career, Bethany has interned and worked under respected professionals in the equine industry, gaining hands-on knowledge from accomplished horsemen and women including Dr. Joe Gotti, Don Rogers, Steve Kutie, Margaret Kitts, and Christie Bacot. These opportunities refined her skills in Western Dressage, Reining, Cutting, and Colt Starting. Prior to beginning her teaching career, she also offered natural horsemanship training services, particularly working with challenging horses.
In 2015, Bethany welcomed her first child, and her focus temporarily shifted as she grew her family. She is now a proud wife and mother to three children, all of which share her passion for horses and animals. With the support of her husband and children, Bethany continues to dedicate herself to sharing her knowledge of natural horsemanship and equitation with students and riders of all levels.
PAIGE GARCIA, ENGLISH INSTRUCTOR
Paige has been immersed in the equestrian world from a young age and brings both heart and experience to her teaching. She has been volunteering with therapeutic horseback riding programs since the age of 14, developing a deep appreciation for the transformative power of horses in people’s lives.
She especially loves working with adult amateurs and beginner riders, creating a supportive, confidence-building environment where students feel safe to grow and challenge themselves. Paige is passionate about correct horsemanship, strong foundations on the flat, and developing thoughtful, well-rounded riders.
Outside of the ring, she is a dedicated fox hunter and proud horse-holiday enthusiast, embracing the rich traditions and community that make the sport so special.
KELLEY LOVELACE,
WESTERN INSTRUCTOR
Kelley Lovelace is a part-time Western riding instructor at Rocking J Stables, joining the team after her retirement to continue doing what she loves most, working with horses and sharing her knowledge with others.
Kelley’s bond with horses began at an early age. As the daughter and granddaughter of cattle ranchers, she spent her childhood on horseback, helping wrangle cattle and learning the values of hard work and horsemanship. She began competing in rodeo at just six years old and quickly discovered a passion for girls’ bull riding, much to her mother’s dismay. Over the years, Kelley earned numerous awards and accolades in rodeo while also competing in Western Pleasure and horse shows. She was the youngest member of the Leather and Lace Riding Club.
After graduation, Kelley took a job exercising race horses in Amarillo, Texas. Soon after, she met and married a city boy, which led her into many successful years in corporate America. Though her career path shifted, her love for horses never faded.
Kelley is blessed with two loving daughters and three handsome grandsons. She brings decades of experience, heart, and dedication to her students at Rocking J Stables and is grateful to once again be part of the horse community she has always cherished.